Aqautic Plants for the Shade - For best selection of plants for your pond, it is best to place the pond in full sun (approx. 8 hours
sunlight). However, for those existing ponds found in partial shade (4-5 hours), this list of bog plants
and waterlilies will be helpful.
Aquatic Container Gardening - With a little imagination and a trip to the garden center you can create a beautiful water garden on
your patio, deck, or any spot in the landscape using a container. Finding a container is easy. Almost
any container capable of holding water is a potential water garden.
Growing Water Lilies - The Essentials:
SUN: The more sun the better (less than 5 hours-check lily charts).
Quiet Water: Avoid water motion close to water-lilies.
Water Depth: 6-18” from container top to water surface.
Heavy Garden Soil: Some clay preferred.
Avoid anything with insecticides or herbicides.
Equipment: Pans and pails.
Plan Water Garden - Fossil evidence indicates that the water lily family
is old and evolutionary. The art of water gardening
has been practiced for over 3000 years. The water
garden even from the very earliest of times has been
an oasis of sight, sound, and refreshment for both
body and spirit.
Opening Your Pond - Check all parts, seals, and hoses for possible leaks.
Most leaks come from the waterfall if you have one. Check all sides where liner
is to make sure the liner hasn't shifted during the winter months.
Closing Your Pond - With small ponds, total drainage is recommended, with larger
ponds, drain 1/3 to 1/2 of pon water using sump pump or your own pump.
Use wet vac to vaccum any debris and muck off shelves and on sides of pond.
Spread the muck collected in your existing garden. It's a great organic fertilizer.
Fish Care - Fish are hardy and will thrive in the right environment. To assure their health and optimize your enjoyment, plan your water feature carefully.
