Stocking the pond includes stocking of plants as well as other aquatic life such as fish, snails, etc. Ponds can be balanced through proper selection of plants and aquatic life. An environmentally balanced pond is one in which the interaction of life in the pond creates a clear and attractive pond. Remember, however, that crystal clear ponds are not necessarily healthy. Plants absorb carbon dioxide during the day and produce oxygen. Fish use the oxygen and produce carbon dioxide. All ponds should be sited in sunlight, since pond plants require sunlight for best performance. Algae growth is also promoted by sunlight, so shade must be provided directly on the water’s surface to discourage the growth of algae. Floating foliage plants such as water lilies, water hyacinth, and lily-like aquatics will accomplish this. Submerged aquatics provide oxygen, a food source and a place for fish to hide. Additionally they provide a place for fish to lay their eggs. Marginal plants take up excess nutrients in the water, inhibiting the growth of algae, and also assist the pond by absorbing heavy metals and other common pollutants. Fish control mosquitoes by eating larvae. Snails and tadpoles are the scavengers of the pond, eating algae and decaying vegetation. All combine to create the naturally balanced environment of a good garden pond.

Water lilies are planted in containers of heavy garden soil. Do not use commercial potting mixes, they are too light. The containers are placed in the pond with 3 inches to 3 feet of water over the top of the pot. Forty to sixty percent of the water surface should be covered with floating foliage plants. The smaller the pond, the more coverage required.

Hardy water lilies provide the water with continuous color from May through frost. The flowers come in many colors: subtle shades of red, rich arrays of pink, sparkling whites, exciting yellows and changeable sunset colors. The flowers rest tranquilly among the rich green or mottled lily pads. Most flowers float on the surface of the water. Several varieties also rise above the surface in a similar fashion to tropical water lilies. The individual flowers of hardy water lilies last up to five days. All hardy water lilies require a minimum of 4 to & hours of sunlight, while Full sun is preferred.

Marginal plants are containerized and planted at a depth of 0—12 inches. Selection of marginals is similar to selecting perennials for the garden. Flower time, height, and texture are important considerations.

As the name implies floating plants are not potted but merely float on the surface of the water. Floating plants are very useful in the garden pond. The extensive root system serves as a spawning bed and provides a place for fish to hide. They are extremely useful in helping to maintain a balanced pond. The floating foliage provides shade cover which helps to stabilize water temperature. The root system helps provide oxygen. In addition, the plants compete with algae for nutrients in the water thus serving to starve algae.

Normally ponds are stocked with gold fish or koi. Fish add color and movement to the pond and help keep insects in check by eating their water born larvae. Selection of goldfish or koi is a matter of personal taste. Koi sometimes are aggressive and bother plants. Plants can be protected with a screen to keep koi from new growth yet allowing the plant to grow to the surface. If you are confused by the many fish available or simply unsure of which items are right for you, let us at THE GARDEN DEPOT EXPO to help you.

Scavengers perform a very useful function in the water garden. Snails eat decaying vegetation and algae. Tadpoles eat algae and also turn into frogs, which will bring more life to your pond.

Submerged aquatics are also known as oxygenating plants. They are planted in pots and placed at the bottom of the pond. The plants generate oxygen, which is important for the fish, and also serve as a filter by absorbing dissolved nutrients and competing with algae. Not only do they help establish a natural balance in the pond, they also serve as food source, spawning mats, and a hiding place for baby fish.

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