Planting the Pond

Plant lilies and marginal  plants in  containers to be submerged in you pond.  Specialized containers are best.  These range from 3.5 quart all the way to 40 quart size for very large ponds.  Never plant lilies or marginal plants directly on the pond bottom.  They could become invasive and out of control.  Pay attention to restrictions for your area.  Some pond plants are forbidden due to their invasive nature.

Possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the plants that will be growing in and around your pond.  Water lilies are the most popular, and you will want at least one.  Choose plants that will fit the size of your pond.  Lilies are measured by the spread of the leaves on the surface...(S) small 1 to 6 sq feet (M) medium 6 to 12 square ft (L) large 12+ sq feet.  Don't forget to check out the miniatures.  They are a bit more expensive but they are adorable and will get a lot of attention.  They will cut down on algae growth, the pads should cover approximately two thirds of the surface area.  Some lilies do not like much surface movement, so consider this if you plan to include a fountain or waterfall in your plan.  The soil you use to plant them in should be a good garden topsoil from your garden.  Do not buy commercial potting soil.  You may buy soil especially formulated for water lilies.  Ordinary potting soil contains ingredients harmful to water plants.    The light requirements vary, but generally (FS) is a minimum of 6 hours direct sun  (PS) minimum of 4 hours direct sun and (S) will tolerate shade.  Word of warning...don't plant any lily in less than the light required.  They will not bloom.  Hardy lilies will return every year to bloom for you.  Tropical water lilies are extremely fragrant, and  can bloom both day and nigh  These plants are not hardy and must be removed from the pond in winter.  Lily tabs, fertilizer tablets you insert in the pots about once a month, will keep your lilies blooming and healthy.  If you lean toward the more exotic, you should check into Lotus.   

Next come the bog or marginal plants.  These plants like wet feet, and will do well accordingly.  Plant these in the shallow area of your pond.  Iris, Sweetflag, Rushes, Cattails are the more popular and common ones.  Also among the easiest to grow.  If you have a boggy or very wet area immediately outside you pond, these will do well here too.  Be sure the ground never dries out.