1.Terrestrial or Bog Plants
- These plants are also known as "edge" plants. These plants take advantage of the abundant moisture present near your pond's margins. Bog plants with deep roots prevent erosion by holding the soil together. These are also perfect for the local wildlife because they offer an alluring source of food and shelter close near the water. All kinds of animals and critters find that the cool shade right on the waterline is the perfect habitat.
- Choose varieties that like wetness. Pay special attention to their sensitivity to standing water and make plans in accordance with that knowledge. Consider purchasing plants that can survive cooler temperatures and shorter days if you want greens all year long. Pick tough, simple-to-grow reeds like horsetail or spongy grasses like papyrus.
2.Marginal Plants
- The term "marginal" or "emergent" refers to plants whose roots, together with a portion of their stem and leaves, remain below the water's surface while their flowering sections emerge into the air. These are occasionally classed together with bog plants, but marginal plants are usually better prepared to withstand prolonged standing water. As a result, rather than being planted along the border of the pond, marginal pond plants are frequently found in a shallow area of the pond.
- Arrowhead plants are popular choices for marginal pond plants. These are excellent aerators, and its aquatic varieties are edible for humans and fish alike. They’re also easy to grow, as they’re extremely hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -4 degrees Fahrenheit. They grow beautiful heart-shaped leaves alongside white flowers.
3.Deep Water Plants/Oxygenating Plants
- These plants grow in the deepest parts of ponds. These can range from plants that are still visible above the surface to those that are fully submerged. The get all of their nutrients from the moist soil and the water itself. Because they remove the most extra nutrients from the water, these plants are responsible for the majority of the effort involved in maintaining a pond's ecosystem.
- These plants also provide essential food and shelter for fish and other aquatic creatures. Hornwort is a hardy variety of fern-like aquatic plant. Small leaves pull nutrients directly from the water, meaning that it doesn’t require substrate for roots. These are great oxygenators, and are popular choices, especially in shady areas.
4.Floating Plants
- In addition to being extremely whimsical complements to any pond, floating plants are also very practical. They directly fight with algae for surface space, protect species from birds and other predators, and help keep water temperatures moderate. Some cultivars have an excessively rapid rate of growth and can soon cover a small pond with too much material. Fortunately, heavy feeder omnivores like koi or ducks can help control these populations.
- Water lilies are a very common choice in many backyard ponds. Lilies can range widely in size, shape, color, and whether they flower. Thanks to their popularity, you can find a species of lily that thrives in almost any climate.