Pond Planters

Pond planters and aquatic plant baskets

Plants make a pond look natural, provide cover for fish and compete with algae for nutrients. Aquatic baskets keep soil contained so it doesn't cloud the water, and make plants easy to lift, trim and divide.

Choosing the right planter

• Water lilies: wide, shallow baskets placed on the pond floor.
• Marginal plants: smaller baskets or fabric bags on planting shelves around the edge.
• Mesh sides: let water and roots through while holding soil in place.

Planting tips

• Use heavy aquatic soil, not potting mix, which floats and clouds the water.
• Top the soil with a layer of gravel so fish don't dig it out.
• Feed with slow-release aquatic plant tablets, such as API Pond Care aquatic plant food tablets, pushed into the soil.

Plants and algae control

A well-planted pond leaves less spare nutrient for algae. Aim to shade part of the surface with lily leaves. For other ways to tackle algae, see algae control.