Water Gardening: I'm back and looking for pond inspiration..., 1 by SongsofJoy

SongsofJoy wrote:
I don't have any experience with raised ponds, but I know a little about shade :)

My pond receives about 2-3 hours of direct sun, and that may be stretching. While there are some disadvantages, I think there are many advantages too. Less sun often means less algae and water temps stay cooler which is better for fish. Leaves and debris can be a nuisance, but I've never had anything but shade so I am perhaps so accustomed to it that I don't really think twice. My waterlilies do not bloom profusely, but they do bloom. I have six pots and usually have 2-3 blooms at a time. Nothing compared to what you'd get in full sun, but somehow they are more special when they are rare :) There are also plenty of shade loving plants that look great next to water so I don't feel deprived. Astilbe is one of my favorites.

Here's my pond in the shade. (I've posted this many times - so my apologies if you've seen it.)