Essential aquatic plants for the pond

Ah, pond enthusiasts! You who can spend hours contemplating your pond, watching the comings and goings of the fish, and discussing for hours the best way to feed your koi.

But let’s face it, isn’t it time to add some greenery to this idyllic picture? If you’re ready to take the plunge, this guide is for you. It goes without saying that your body of water deserves the best.

Let's dive (with humor and lightness, we promise!) into the wonderful world of aquatic plants which, in addition to their beauty, offer many benefits for the balance and health of your water feature.

1. Water lilies: the kings of the pond (Nymphaea)

If there is one aquatic plant that every pond should have, it is the water lily. Of unparalleled beauty, it also offers a shaded refuge for your fish. In Belgium as in France, you will find a multitude of varieties adapted to our climates. Whether they are white, pink or yellow, water lilies are the divas of the pond!

2. Pond horsetail: a return to the past (Equisetum fluviatile)

For history buffs, pond horsetail is a fascinating plant. It was already around in the time of the dinosaurs and hasn't aged a bit. In addition to its prehistoric appearance, horsetail is excellent for filtering pond water.

3. Marsh Iris: the beauty of the banks (Iris pseudacorus)

For the edges of your pond, the marsh iris is an ideal choice. Its beautiful yellow flowers bring color while offering a refuge for small creatures that like to hide.

4. Pondweed: the chameleon of aquatic plants (Potamogeton)

Pondweed is a chameleon plant that adapts to the depth of the water. In shallow areas, its leaves float on the surface, while in deeper waters they are submerged. A plant that adjusts to your needs (and not the other way around)!

5. Aquatic milfoil: the pond dancer (Myriophyllum spicatum)

With its feathery, threadlike leaves, water milfoil creates a beautiful underwater dance with every movement. It is also an excellent oxygenating plant that helps maintain clear water and provides shelter for small fish and aquatic insects.

6. The flowering rush: the delicate of the banks (Butomus umbellatus)

Recognizable by its pastel pink flowers in umbels, the flowering rush beautifully adorns the banks and shallow areas of the pond. It is a robust plant that adapts well to different types of soil.

7. The cattail: the totem of the pelvis (Typha)

Often called "cattail reed," this plant is recognizable by its dark brown cylindrical spikes that tower above the water. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, it also stabilizes riverbanks and provides habitat for many insects.

8. Water Clover: The Mysterious Floating Beauty (Menyanthes trifoliata)

With its floating trifoliate leaves and star-shaped white flowers, water clover is a delight to behold. Although it is inconspicuous, this plant plays a crucial role in providing oxygen to the water and providing shelter for small wildlife.

Note: Before introducing new plants into your pond:

• Always ask about their specific needs, their compatibility with your existing ecosystem
• Be sure to avoid invasive or non-native species
• Also respect the planting depths for optimal growth

In summary:

Equipping your water feature with aquatic plants is not just a question of aesthetics. It also provides a healthy environment for our finned friends, a biological balance, and of course, one more excuse to spend even more time admiring your pond! So, are you ready to dive into the world of aquatic plants?