PLANT YOUR POND!
Did you know that adding in Aquatic Plants is one of the best things you can do for your pond? Not only do aquatic plants add a beautiful aesthetic, but they also help with the health of your pond! Some of the health benefits include:
Natural Filtration
Help Oxygenate the water
Offers shade for fish
Helps prevent algae growth
Let's get into the tips & tricks to ensure your ponds are set up for success this summer.
SPRING PREPARATION
As we’re approaching summer, now is the perfect time to get plants into your pond if you haven’t done so yet. Water temperatures are rising and the warmth of the water helps stimulate strong root growth. It’s important to get your aquatic plants into your ponds before algae takes hold, they’ll help filter the water before temperatures get to high.
Water Lilies and Lotus are great plants to add during spring. They’ll cover the surface of your pond, providing shade to the underneath. Adding in Marginals, such as Irises and Pickerel Rush, will give your pond structure and height.
SUMMER GROWTH
If you missed spring, don’t worry! Summer is still a great time to add in your aquatic plants. Warm water will help promote fast establishment and foliage growth.
During the summer time, it’s great to add in tropical aquatic plants such as taro, canna, or papyrus. These plants will help add dimensional color to your ponds.
When adding in plants during the heat of the summer, it’s best to place them in shaded or cooler areas of the pond to prevent heat stress. You can also fertilize your ponds mid-season for a little boost!
FALL MAINTENANCE
Once temperatures start to drop, and the Fall season is here, it’s best to stay away from adding plants to your ponds. This is the perfect season for maintenance, and trimming.
Trim back any foliage that is starting to brown or die off, this will help prevent decaying. Divide any overgrown plants to set your pond up for healthy regrowth next season, and remove any floating plants that won’t survive the winter.
Once Winter rolls around, most aquatic species go dormant, and the ecosystems slow down. It’s the perfect time to start planning your ponds, and getting excited for the next season!
PLAN YOUR PLANTS
Things to keep in mind when you’re designing your pond are colors, size, direction, and care.
SIZE & LAYOUT
When choosing the right plant, research the height and width of the plants at their mature state. You want to be sure your pond provides enough space for future growth.
Always plant shorter plants in front of taller ones. Keep the line of sight to your pond from where you’ll typically view it in mind.
COLOR
When choosing aquatic plants that bloom, consider the type of lighting your pond receives. If your pond is located in a shadier area, it’s great to plant yellow, orange, and white to help brighten the space. Cool blue and violets will help tone down the intensity of the sun’s rays if your pond is in a sunnier area. Add in different textures and shades of green foliage to create a softer environment.
CARE
Be mindful of how much sun your aquatic plants require, along with their planting depth. If you choose a plant that requires full sun, be sure it’s going in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Be sure to stop by our garden center for hands on help when planning your ponds. We offer a variety of aquatic plants, and can assist you during your visit!