If you use too much of the wrong type of fertiliser algae may take hold before the plants. Some other more delicate specimen plants may require a simple re-pot and trim just to provide it the ideal start to the season.įertilising may be required but you must be a little cautious not to overload the pond before the plants have really shot away. The general rule for pond plants is the more the better, with the exception of so many there is no room for the fish. If it is growing well and you like it, don’t be afraid to try division to increase quantity. Plants out growing their basket are the most common concern however this can be advantageous as the plant is working hard to find food. Not all plants will require yearly division or even that much care but it pays to check. Waterlilies tend to get plenty of care, where the rest of the pond plants usually get forgotten about. One task not given much thought is the care required to get the best results out of all pond plants. Late winter to early spring is the time to consider all pond preparation. This helps to keep the organic loading on the pond low as well as reducing the frequency of filter maintenance. Don’t panic! Treat your pond much the same as the rest of the garden with light pruning and removal of dying foliage. This is standard with ponds and includes waterlilies and lotus. Reductions of flowers, leaf fall and less re-growth are all very common. During the late summer months the plants will start to show the signs of dormancy. Nearly all pond plants are seasonal with the odd exception. Pond plant baskets are available in many sizes and shapes. Other positive results are long frilly roots create great spawning matter for fish. This process is done by all pond plants if potted correctly. When planted in a specific aquatic basket with low nutrient aquatic soil (see picture) they quickly go to work drawing nutrient from the water by pushing their roots out of the basket holes. HygieneĪll plants, in particular large root mass plants like Cyprus prolifer and hyrgophilia Augustifolia (Blue hygro), are gross feeders of unwanted waste product in ponds. Many other plants create excellent homes for species like frogs and dragonflies. Most finer leafed submerged plants are ideal for fish to spawn in also providing vegetation for goldfish to graze on with added benefit of hiding places for fry fish. These plants have enough height to shade margin areas of the pond breaking wind gusts to aid protection to fish and other pond life. Great examples of this are taller margin plants like pond pickerel or the Louisiana Iris. This means protection from wind, sun and predators. The general rule for plants outside of the focal group ( Waterlilies, lotus) is to provide cover, habitat and hygiene to the pond. Many little points around the care and upkeep of pond plants will help you get the best out of your plants. All plants are beneficial for the pond environment.

Aquatic plants for ponds