There are many reasons why people choose to use aquatic plants and water in their yards, garden ponds and landscape ponds. Some people use aquatic plants because they add so much life and beauty to their yard or garden. They also help keep the environment better by reducing the amount of nitrogen, phosphorous and other chemicals that are found in the soil. A lot of aquatic plants can be purchased in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.
Select an aquatic gardening plant to grow in a pot that is designed for the size of the plants you will be growing. Aquatic pots come in many different sizes, shapes and colors. Small landscape ponds and water gardening ponds are usually very small pots that fit into a corner. You should have one foot of clearance on either side for the roots to spread out.
Large water gardening ponds or water gardens need larger pots with a higher level of water. If you want your water garden to appear more natural look for a larger water garden pond e.g. a stone margin. Make sure that the stones are approximately two to three feet apart as they will break down over time.
Many people who have a water garden pond choose to use artificial means of aquascaping like aquariums and aquatic pots. This is also referred to as aquaculture. When you use artificial means of aquascaping to grow your aquatic plants you should be aware of how much light, nutrients, water, food and shade their seeds will need. Find out which plants will be best for your area and then place them in the appropriate pot and water them properly.
Some plants will not grow in certain conditions, for example plants that do not tolerate high levels of light will not grow in a stone margin aquatic garden pond. Also fish will need specific things to survive and thrive. Some fish do better in planted beds, whereas others will do well in floating plants. It helps to know what kind of fish you have so that you can choose the right plants to match.
The main plants to use are submerged plants, ones that float on top of the water. You want to make sure that any plants you include are not too fast growing or too large for the available space in your pond. If you have a small pond, it will be easier to keep algae to a minimum. A small pond will still need an adequate amount of sunlight but you may consider a floating plant or two.
The main type of plants that will be best for an established pond is submerged plants. The smaller ones will not float over the top and stay below the surface. Over time they will develop roots and grow very well in this environment. The best time to install them is during the hottest part of the year.
Other types of plants to consider are water lilies, water hyacinths, ferns and floating plants. Ferns are very hardy plants and will withstand most pond conditions. They provide privacy as well as shelter from most insects. As an added bonus they will also grow wild green leaves which can help filter the air and keep algae to a minimum.
Water lilies are another great option for new ponds. They are winter hardy plants and will survive even the worst temperatures. They are a popular choice because they are attractive and colorful. They can be planted in a variety of colors depending on what appeals to you most. Because they are water lilies they come with beautiful leaves.
If you are looking for plants for new ponds, be sure to consider a good root system. Root systems are important for the health of water plants. Water lily roots grow directly to the base of the plant. Aquatic pots with a rock margin provide good support for roots while keeping the water level low. Rock Margin Ponds will work well for most plants and will keep the water level low enough for healthy plant growth.
Many people consider fish to be the most attractive plant for ponds. Koi are a very popular choice. Koi come in a wide range of colors and are one of the easiest plants to care for. The only caution is that Koi are prone to algae growth. If you are growing more than a few Koi, it is a good idea to use soil fertilizer. Fertilizing your plants helps to prevent algae from forming on the leaves and stems of the plants.