I put in a puny (just 32 gallons) pond this past weekend, and need to know what plants I can put in it. The pond is in direct sun about 6-7 hours a day. The deepest part of the pond is about 20 to 24 inches deep. There are 2 shelves on either side, about a foot deep. I live in Zone 5-6. I would like to find something that either won't grow too big or can be easily cut back, and won't die in a Zone 5-6 winter. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
- Kathleen
Water Plants
You might want to post your question in the Water Gardens forum - more folks that have experience in ponds might see your request. :)
Any miniature water lily would do well in it. Rubra and Helvola are two of my favourites. If your winter is cold enough that the pond will freeze solid to the bottom tho' you will have to overwinter them somewhere else. A Japanese Iris could sit on the shelf but would have to be removed and dug into your garden before freeze up....it's crown cannot be wet when it freezes. Water Marigolds can be left in the pond...they are extremely hardy. A miniature lotus would look pretty snazzy in it...some people in your zone have overwintered theirs in a garage I've read.
I read an article about planting water lilies in Dixie Cups. You just pinch off the leaves you don't want and it's supposed to work for smaller ponds. Not sure about your small pond though.