Adding a selection of plants to your pond not only improves water quality, but also supports wildlife and creates a more natural aesthetic. Choose the right varieties based on several factors, including your pond's size, the planting zones, and whether or not you want to keep fish.
A balanced pond typically includes a mixture of plant types that grow in the different zones of your pond. This helps maintain oxygen levels, reduce the growth of algae, and create habitats suitable for fish, frogs, and other wildlife.
The types of pond plants
Combining a selection of the following plant types helps create a balanced and beautiful pond ecosystem.
- Oxygenating plants: Submerged plants that release oxygen into the water to help maintain a healthy ecosystem.
- Marginal plants: Grow in the shallow sections around the pond's edge, providing colour and structure.
- Floating plants: Sit on the surface of the water and help to shade the pond and reduce algae growth.
- Water lilies: Root at the bottom of the pond with leaves and flowers that float on the surface.
- Deep water plants: Planted in the deep areas of your pond. These plants grow upward to the surface and provide shelter for fish.
For more information about care and the plant zones, check out our How To Plant Your Pond guide.
Why add plants to your pond?
Outdoor aquatic plants play an important role in supporting pond health, including:
- Natural filtration: Plants absorb excess nutrients from the water as they grow.
- Shelter for fish: Leaves and stems provide hiding places for fish.
- Wildlife friendly: Planted ponds attract wildlife such as frogs, insects, newts, and more.
- Algae control: Surface plants shade water and reduce the nutrients that feed algae.
Add a mixture of plant varieties for the best overall balance.
Why choose Swell UK?
At Swell UK we provide:
- Lowest price guarantee: Get the best prices on leading brands.
- Next-day delivery: Fast and reliable shipping right to your door.
- Wide range of varieties: From water lilies to oxygenating pond plants and many more.
- Expert advice: Any questions? Our pond specialists are available to help you choose the right plants for your pond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many plants should I have in my pond?
We recommend about 50-70% of the ponds surface should be covered by plants to maintain good water quality and provide appropriate shade for fish.
Do pond plants help reduce algae?
Aquatic plants feed on the nutrients that algae need to grow, and thanks to the surface cover they provide enough shade to limit growth.
Can I grow plants in a small pond?
Many plants are suitable for small ponds, container ponds, and even water features!
Do pond plants need soil?
Most plants grow best when planted in aquatic compost in a planting basket. However, floating plants are the exception as they simply are placed on the surface of the water.