What Plants Will Keep My Water Feature Clean

A water feature is a beautiful addition to any garden or outdoor space, providing a tranquil atmosphere and adding an extra dimension to your landscape. However, maintaining the health and cleanliness of the water can be challenging, particularly if you do not use chemical supplements.

Fortunately, certain plants have been shown to be particularly effective at keeping water features clean, filtering out pollutants and maintaining the vital balance of minerals and nutrients. In this article, we will explore the best plants for cleaning water features.

1. Water Lilies

Water lilies are perhaps the most iconic aquatic plants, their elegant floating leaves and delicate flowers adding grace and charm to any water feature. However, they are also valuable for their filtration properties, absorbing nutrients and pollutants from the water and releasing oxygen. As they grow, they create shade and shelter, which discourages the growth of algae and other unwanted organisms.

Water lilies require a depth of at least 18 inches of water, and they prefer still, calm water. They can tolerate shade, but they require at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Choose smaller varieties, such as Dwarf Water Lily or Lemon Mist, for smaller water features.

2. Water Hyacinth

Water hyacinth is a fast-growing plant that is particularly effective at removing excess nutrients from the water. It absorbs minerals like phosphorus and nitrogen, which are the main culprits of excessive algae growth. Once these nutrients have been absorbed, they are stored in the plant's tissue, preventing them from being released back into the water and contributing to further algae growth.

Water hyacinth is also incredibly easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance other than regular removal of dead leaves and roots. They can be grown in shallow water and tolerate direct sunlight, making them a good choice for medium-sized water features.

3. Water Iris

Water iris is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that adds a splash of color to your water feature. They have long, narrow leaves that provide excellent shade, reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches the water surface and discouraging algae growth. They also take up excess nutrients from the water, keeping it clean and healthy.

Water iris can grow in shallow water or moist soil, and they require little care beyond occasional thinning and pruning. Dwarf varieties, such as the Dwarf Blue Flag, are well-suited for smaller water features.

4. Cattails

Cattails are tall, hardy plants that not only add visual interest to your water feature but also tackle excess nutrients and pollutants. They are particularly effective at absorbing nitrogen, which is a key component of algae growth, and they release oxygen into the water, improving its overall health.

Cattails can be grown in a variety of water depths and tolerate a range of conditions, including full sun and partial shade. They do require regular maintenance to keep them from taking over your water feature, but their effectiveness at keeping the water clean makes them a worthwhile investment.

5. Water Chestnut

Water chestnut is an unusual plant that adds a unique texture and flavor to your water feature. However, it is also an effective filter, removing excess phosphorus and nitrogen from the water and helping to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients. They also provide excellent shade, reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches the water surface and discouraging algae growth.

Water chestnuts require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day and a depth of at least 12 inches of water. They require minimal care other than regular thinning and pruning to prevent overcrowding.

By using the right plants, you can keep your water feature clean and healthy without the use of harsh chemicals or expensive filtration systems. Consider adding one or more of these plants to your water feature to maximize its beauty and health.