What to Plant for Ducks in Water

Ducks are beautiful waterfowl that flock around many ponds and lakes in the world. If you are a duck lover or a duck hunter who wants to attract ducks to your property, planting suitable vegetation can be an effective way to attract and retain these waterbirds. Here is a list of plants that you can grow for ducks in the water.

1. Smartweed

Smartweed is a plant that grows in shallow water and creates a natural resting place for many waterfowl, including ducks. This leafy plant provides valuable food for ducks, especially during the winter months when food is scarce. Smartweed is also a crucial plant for the occasional nesting of ducks.

2. Wild Rice

Wild rice is a beautiful plant that grows in deep water and provides excellent cover for ducks. Ducks love to hide in this plant, which also provides a natural food source for them. Wild rice is a perennial plant that can recycle nutrients in the water and suppress the growth of harmful algae.

3. Duckweed

Duckweed is a small floating plant that can provide a significant source of food for ducks. This fast-growing plant has high nutritional value and can quickly colonize still waters such as ponds and wetlands. Duckweed can also help clean and purify the water by absorbing excess nitrogen and phosphorus.

4. Wild Celery

Wild celery is a plant that grows in relatively deep water and can provide ducks with exceptional food and cover. This plant roots to the bottom of the water body and can filter excess nutrients from the water. Wild celery also provides food for other insects and crustaceans, which are consumed by ducks.

5. Water Milfoil

Water milfoil is a plant species that grows in any water depth and is attractive to ducks. This plant can provide shelter to ducks from predators and harsh weather conditions. Water milfoil also has excellent filtration abilities that can help to clean and improve water quality.

6. Sago Pondweed

Sago pondweed is a type of plant that grows in shallow water and can provide an excellent source of food for ducks. This plant can survive in various temperatures and water qualities, making it an excellent addition to any water body. Sago pondweed can support a significant population of ducks that use it for food and cover even during the winter months.

Conclusion

Attracting ducks to your water body can be a rewarding experience for duck enthusiasts and hunters. By planting suitable vegetation such as smartweed, wild rice, duckweed, wild celery, water milfoil, and sago pondweed, you can create a natural habitat that attracts and nurtures these waterbirds. Grow these plants, and you will have a beautiful water feature teeming with life that provides excellent food and shelter for ducks.