Aquatic plants are among the easiest plants to grow. Many aquatic plants are actually weeds in their native habitat. In cultivation, these plants are grown in containers. Some popular containers are dish pans, plastic nursery pots or specially made plastic containers for aquatic gardens. A pond that is well balanced with plant and animal life does not require filtration.
The larger the pond the easier it is to achieve a “balanced pond.” Usually the threshold is about 1,000 gallons to manage a balanced pond. The recommended size is 50 – 75 square feet and 18 inches deep. The smaller the volume of water in the pond the warmer it becomes. This actually stimulates excessive algal growth. A pond that is too small also limits the choice of plants.
To reduce excessive algal growth (green water) there should be enough plants to cover at least 60 – 70 percent of the surface. These will compete with the algae for nutrients, and also provide additional oxygen for the fish.
Aquatic plants, unlike most other garden plants, actually do very well in heavy soil. Soil with a high clay content is recommended. A potting soil high in organic matter is not recommended because it will float out of the container and does not anchor the plant roots very well.
Aquatic plants are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Use the specially prepared fertilizer tablets. These are 10g pellets of fertilizer that have been compressed into a solid capsule. Insert them 2 – 4" into the soil along the outer edge of the plants at planting time and monthly thereafter.
Topics Covered
- Potting Soil
- Planting Procedures
- Hardy Water Lilies
- Tropical Water Lilies
- Night Bloomers
