Every time we have created a new pond at the nursery, our goal has been to find the pond’s balance naturally, using only plants. In this article, we will therefore see how it works, what and how many plants we should install, and look at a few helpful tips.

For pond balance.

To achieve a balanced pond, three types of plants are necessary, each with a specific function: oxygenators, water lilies, and emergent plants.

Oxygenators

They live underwater and, as their name suggests, provide oxygen to the water. These plants are mainly characterized by the fact that they are vigorous growers; even if they are initially installed in aquatic baskets, they will develop, grow out of the basket, and spread across the entire bottom of the pond by using the natural sediment that forms. They will therefore have a greater oxygenating function and will also exploit the sediment at the bottom. While they live primarily underwater, some can also have foliage that rests on the water or even rises above it, which can add aesthetic appeal to the ponds.

Water lilies

Foliage resting on the water contributes significantly to the balance of the pond. By covering the water, it slows down the warming of the water—a warming that algae thrive on. One important point is that not all water lilies require the same water depth above them. For example, small water lilies like to be in 15 to 30 cm of water, some between 30 and 60 cm, others between 60 cm and 1 meter, and very large ones between 60 cm and 1.50 meters.

Therefore, when choosing a water lily, you must take your pond's depth into account. However, it is also very important to consider the width of your pond and compare it with the space your water lily will occupy once mature. Take the example of water lilies for depths of 60 cm to 1.50 meters, which can spread over two and a half to three square meters of water surface.

Thus, if your pond has the required depth but is no more than 1.50 meters wide, the foliage will spill over the sides of the pond, creating a very mediocre and unsightly effect. In this case, it is preferable to choose a water lily with a smaller spread and to play with the depth of the pond by elevating the water lily basket for a much more harmonious look.

Emergent plants

Emergent plants are distinguished by two parts: the vegetative and reproductive structures located above the water, and the other part, the roots, located underwater. They bring a great deal of decorative appeal to the pond. They are also very useful for the wildlife that lives around or in the water. They serve as a food source for some, as perches for creatures like dragonflies, and as hiding places for others.