Plants in the pond – beauty, health and benefits combined
Plants in a pond are far more than just decorative elements. They are essential for a healthy pond ecosystem : they filter pollutants, produce oxygen, provide shade, and offer hiding places for your koi. At the same time, there are plants that are not only beautiful but also edible and can be used in salads, teas, or as spices .
Ecological functions of pond plants
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Natural filtration: Plants absorb excess nitrates, phosphates, and other nutrients that would otherwise promote algae growth.
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Oxygen supply: Underwater plants produce oxygen, which is vital for fish and microorganisms.
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Shade providers & retreats: Floating and bank plants reduce stress in koi, protect against predators and stabilize the pond climate.
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Temperature regulation: Plants prevent extreme temperature fluctuations, keep the water cooler and promote a stable microclimate.
Edible and beautiful plants for the pond
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Watercress (Nasturtium officinale): Crisp, vitamin-rich, ideal for fresh salads; grows on the edge or floats on the water's surface and brings vibrant greenery to the pond.
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Aquatic basil (Ocimum spp., e.g. “Aquatic Basil”): Aromatic, edible and decorative; stands out with bright green leaves.
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Red chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla): Edible, colorful leaves and stems, particularly decorative at the edge of ponds or in shallow shoreline areas.
Other useful pond plants:
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Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum): Underwater plant, binds nutrients, produces oxygen.
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Water lilies (Nymphaea): Provide shade, reduce algae growth by blocking light, and are visually striking.
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Iris or cattail (Iris pseudacorus, Typha): riparian plants, filter pollutants and provide habitat for small animals.
Optimal plant density for filtration and health
The right plants depend on the pond size, fish population, and plant species :
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Floating and shoreline plants: Cover 30–50% of the water surface to provide shade and bind excess nutrients.
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Underwater plants: Approximately one third of the pond depth should be planted to optimize oxygen production and nutrient uptake.
Calculation example:
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Calculate pond area: Length × Width.
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Plan for 30–50% of this area to be used for floating plants.
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Plan underwater plants according to volume (area × depth) to ensure optimal filtration and oxygen supply.
Conclusion
Plants are essential for a healthy, stable pond . They support filtration, improve water quality, and provide hiding places for koi. Edible plants such as watercress, aquatic basil, or red chard combine aesthetic value, nutritional richness, and enjoyment – perfect for pond owners who want to combine nature, health, and beauty.