Some plants are microscopic. They are usefull in fighting algae, oxygenating water, and providing food for your fish. These kind of water plants can be bought in gross and are relatively cheap.

Planting should be generally be done during the growing season. When setting up a new pond, wait at least four or five weeks before adding your fish. If you can’t wait that long you can add them sooner, but remember, the idea is to let the plants get established first.

When choosing plants, consider water lilies of the tropical persuasion. They need warm temperatures, though, so unless you live in a consistant warm-weather climate, be prepared to transplant them to a greenhouse or buy them “grow” lights during the winter. They will not last at freezing temperatures so give them night-time temps of at least 65F and daytime temps of 75F or more.

After planting your water plants in plastic tubs or clay pots, pack the fertilizer- and chemical-free soil down tightly, and load the container down with pea gravel. This keeps soil from floating away. Place your plant into your pond at the necessary depth and you’re on your way.