Introduction
Water fountains are not only a great way to add natural beauty to your surroundings, but they also provide a suitable environment for growing plants that are otherwise difficult to grow in conventional planters. Growing plants in water is an exciting and unique way to showcase your gardening skills. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps required to grow plants in a water fountain.
Choosing the Right Plants
The first step in growing plants in a water fountain is selecting the right plants. Not all plants can be grown in water. Plants that thrive in water are typically those that grow in or near water bodies like ponds and streams. Examples of plants that grow well in water include water lilies, lotus, water hyacinths, and duckweed. These plants are specially adapted to grow in water with the right conditions, making them perfect for your water fountain.
Preparing the Water Fountain
Before you begin growing plants in your water fountain, you need to ensure that it is suitable for the plants. First, the water fountain should be large enough to accommodate the plants you intend to grow. You also need to ensure that the lighting is sufficient for the plants to thrive. Some plants need more sunlight than others, so you should choose plants that match the lighting conditions of your water fountain.
In addition to lighting, you need to consider the depth of the water in your fountain. Most water-loving plants will require a water depth that falls between six inches to two feet. Therefore, if your fountain is too deep or too shallow, you may need to make adjustments to allow the plants to thrive.
Planting the Plants
Once you have chosen the right plants and prepared your water fountain, the next step is planting the plants. The right method for planting in a water fountain is the same as planting in soil. Use soil and gravel to secure the plants in place. Fill the bottom of the fountain with gravel about one-third of the way up. Then, handle the plants gently and ensure that their roots are completely submerged in the water without being buried in the gravel.
Caring for the Plants
To ensure that your plants thrive in your water fountain, you should take care of them regularly. Since the water in the fountain is not changed regularly, it’s important to maintain the quality of the water. Check the pH levels every week and make adjustments as necessary. Add a suitable water treatment product or use natural methods such as aquatic snails, which feed on algae and help to maintain water quality.
You should also monitor the growth of the plants to ensure that they are not overcrowding. Overcrowded plants can affect the overall health of the plants in the fountain. If you notice that your plants are outgrowing the fountain, you may need to remove and transplant some of them to another location.
Conclusion
Growing plants in a water fountain is a unique and exciting way to enhance the beauty of your surroundings. With the right plants, water fountain and care, you can enjoy a thriving water garden in your home or office. Remember to choose the right plants, prepare your fountain well before planting, and care for the plants regularly to ensure their health and growth.