Aquatic plants are essential for maintaining healthy water ecosystems, from improving water quality to providing habitats for aquatic life. These plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of ponds and water features but also play a vital role in reducing maintenance, controlling algae growth, and promoting biodiversity. Whether you’re designing a backyard pond or upgrading an existing water feature, incorporating aquatic plants can bring color, texture, and life to every depth of your water body.
Let’s dive into the four main categories of aquatic plants to help you make the most of your water feature.
Shoreland Plants: Framing the Water’s Edge
Also known as marginal plants, shoreland plants grow just above the waterline and create a natural transition from land to water. These versatile plants tolerate flooding and drought, making them perfect for stabilizing soil, filtering pollutants, and adding vibrant color to the shoreline.
Popular Shoreland Plants:
- Cattails
- Canna lilies
- Reeds
- Milkweed
- Iris
- Black-eyed Susan
Shoreland plants are keystones in landscaping around water. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also support small mammals and birds, offering shelter and food. For example, the shoreline garden at the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden beautifully demonstrates how these plants can create waves of color and texture while benefiting the surrounding ecosystem.
Emergent Plants: Adding Color Above the Water
Emergent plants grow with their root systems submerged and their foliage rising above the water, making them a striking addition to the edges of ponds and water features. These plants oxygenate shallow areas, regulate water temperature, and provide shade and food for aquatic life.
Top Picks for Emergent Plants:
- Water lilies
- Lotus flowers
- Arrowhead plants
- Rushes
Emergent plants can be the focal point of a water feature, offering bold blooms and lush greenery that complement their surroundings.
Floating Plants: Graceful Layers on the Water Surface
Floating plants rest on the water’s surface, bringing a whimsical charm to any water feature. While they provide shade, oxygen, and nutrients for aquatic life, many floating species are invasive and can spread rapidly if not managed.
Common Floating Plants:
- Water hyacinth
- Spangles
- Frogbit
- Water lettuce
When introducing floating plants to your pond or water feature, use floating dividers or containment rings to maintain control and prevent overgrowth. These plants add a dynamic layer of beauty while supporting a healthy aquatic ecosystem when kept under control.
Submerged Plants: The Hidden Heroes
Submerged plants grow entirely underwater and play a crucial role in maintaining water clarity and health. While they may not be as visually prominent, these plants oxygenate deep waters, reduce algae growth, and provide habitats for fish and aquatic invertebrates.
Essential Submerged Plants:
- Broadleaf pondweed
- Elodia
- Naiads
- Watermilfoils
Submerged plants are indispensable for the long-term health of ponds and larger water bodies. Without them, stagnant waters can experience algae blooms and reduced oxygen levels. By incorporating these hidden heroes, you can minimize maintenance while ensuring a thriving aquatic ecosystem.
Gardening Around Water: Creating a Seamless Transition
Incorporating upland plants around your water feature bridges the gap between water and landscape. By transitioning from shoreland plants to larger ornamental trees, shrubs, and ground covers, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing flow across your property.
Design Tips:
- Use pathways to separate water features from the surrounding garden for a striking centerpiece.
- Blend water features into the landscape by planting upland plants like hostas, ferns, and ornamental grasses.
- Add larger capstone plants, such as Japanese maples or flowering shrubs, to frame your water feature.
Whether you prefer a natural look that flows seamlessly into the landscape or a more formal design that highlights your water feature as a focal point, your options are endless.
Trust the Experts for Stunning Water Features
Designing and maintaining a water feature can be complex, but Berns Landscaping is here to help. With over 40 years of experience, we specialize in creating picturesque water features and aquascapes tailored to your vision. From plant selection to installation, we’ll ensure your water feature is both beautiful and functional.
Call us today at (586) 756-1145 to transform your water feature into a vibrant, thriving centerpiece that enhances your property.