Pond plants are one element of a tranquil pond that brings lush greenery to the setting. A pond can be built anywhere in your garden, but a shaded area may be best for restful reflection and for control of algae. Once the pond shape and placement are settled, the pond liner installed and filled with water, the aquatic plants can be arranged.

Although each pond will be unique to meet the criteria of its creator, pond plants themselves fall into four categories, which are essential to achieve proper water balance. Plants should cover about half the surface of the pond, as this helps to control the growth of algae, which will make the pond look murky and become unhealthy. Plant care information will provide details about landscape maintenance around the pond as well as selection and maintenance of aquatic plants.

Four Categories of Pond Plants

In addition to restricting sunlight, pond plants absorb carbon dioxide and minerals from the water, thus depriving algae of its food. Oxygenators have their roots and stems submerged, and do not usually flower. If you just love flowers and want as many blooms as possible in your pond, select the water violet and water buttercup. Deep water aquatics need to be planted more than a foot deep; their function is largely to prevent the sunlight from penetrating the water and fostering the growth of algae. Water hawthorne has fragrant flowers, and golden club has singular gold-and-white flowers.

Floaters are also aptly named; their roots are submerged, but their stems and leaves float on the surface of the pond. Water hyacinth has flowers, and other floaters include water lettuce and water soldier. Marginals, once again, are accurately named, because they are ornamentals that usually cling to the margins of the pond where the water is shallow. Good choices include marsh marigolds, water forget-me-nots, and pickerel weed.