Pond Plants: Deep-Water, Oxygenators/Surface Floaters, Marginals, Bog Plants

PLANTS FOR PONDS FOR DIFFERENT DEPTHS, DEEP WATER PLANTS, OXYGENATORS AND SURFACE FLOATERS, AND MARGINALS AND BOG PLANTS (2)

Deep Water Plants

The deepest areas of a pond, at 12-36in (30-90cm), can accommodate quite a number of water plants. Popular varieties include the yellow pond lily (nuphar advena) and golden club (Orontium aquaticum), both of which add a cheerful touch of green and gold which enlivens pond planting. But, though these and many more are well worth growing, there is no doubt that the most spectacular deep water plants are the water lilies (Nymphaea). The precise planting depths for water lilies vary from species to species, but there are a number suitable for deep ponds. Initially even deep water varieties should be planted quite shallowly – stand the containers on blocks and gradually lower them to their preferred depth as they grow. Varying in color from deep red-pink to blue to pure white and shades of yellow, there is a water lily to fit any color scheme – and I guarantee that their presence will add an instant touch of elegance.

Oxygenators And Surface Floaters

Oxygenators perform a vital function in the pond, helping to supply oxygen for the healthy growth of water plants and animals, and prevent blooms of algae from forming. Although they are an essential and practical addition to pond planting, some oxygenators are also rather attractive. Water startword (Callitriche), the lovely, lilac-flowered water violet (Hottonia palustris), and the water crowsfoot (Ranunculus aquatiis) – which produces tiny white flowers in late spring – are all as pretty as they are practical.

Surface floaters can also be very useful, helping to shade the water and thus restrict the growth of algae. Some however, including azolla and the duckweeds (Lemna minor and L. gibba), may form a carpet of growth that is too dense and clogs the surface. Consequently, these should be used only in very large ponds – or be controlled vigorously – but there are many less invasive varieties, such as frogbit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae), which look good, grow at a more reasonable rate, and therefore require less maintenance in smaller ponds. Another surface floater, the water soldier (Stratiotes aloides), forms a rosette of erect leaves and though submerged in mid to late summer when it produces lovely which flowers.

Marginals

Marginal plants can help make a pond look natural, softening the otherwise sharp line between water and land. Marginals are grown in shallow water, usually at depths of about 6-12in (15-30cm), and can make attractive additions to a planting design. The choice includes such beautiful varieties as Iris laevigata, the blue flag (Iris versicolor), and many species of Mimulus. However, like so many water plants, marginals are not just chosen for their looks – they also perform a practical function. A good dense planting of marginals provides a diversity of hiding and feeding places, which should lure the local wildlife, and will shade the edges of the pond a certain times of day.

Wildlife Pond Mimicking nature, this small but very pretty pond is densely planted marginals, which shade the water, provide a cool retreat for the goldfish, and shelter visiting wildlife. The planting, dominated by plants chosen for their foliage, such as alchemilla, creates a scene that will look good all year. The natural appearance of the pond is enhanced by the inclusion of cow parsley and buttercups

Bog Plants

If you have, or can develop, an area for growing plants that need a boggy or constantly moist soil, then you will be able to treat yourself to some of the prettiest water plants of all.

Gunnera manicata puts on tremendous growth and develops gorgeous, umbrella-like foliage if you have space and sufficient moist soil to house it. But be warned that since it can grow up to 8 x 10ft (2.5 x 3 m), it will completely hide an average garden pond. Other attractive bog foliage plants with more manageable growing habits include the variegated and golden forms of hostas. These do produce delicate flower stems in their season, but for real impact, try growing the stately cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) alongside.

Alternatively, or elsewhere, if your pond is large enough, grown the globeflower (Trollius europaeus), with its golden spheres of color, and some primroses (Primula), for a very colorful scene.

Making use of color Pond side plantings needn’t be subdued, as this riotous combination clearly illustrates. Purple bog irises, with bold, variegated leaves and candelabra primroses in clashing shades of pink and red, combine for a show-stopping effect.