Creating a natural pond is a wonderful way to promote local biodiversity while bringing serenity to your garden. A key element to achieving this harmonious ecosystem is the choice of plants.
By focusing on native or European species, you ensure that plants coexist effectively with local wildlife while helping to maintain an ecological balance. Let's discover together the best plants for a natural pond, focusing on their role in water filtration, oxygenation and their ability to attract insects and aquatic wildlife. 🌸🐝
🌱 Why choose native plants for a natural pond?
Native plants are naturally adapted to their environment. They promote a healthy, self-sustaining ecosystem by interacting with local wildlife and microorganisms. Here’s why they’re crucial:
- Ecological 🌍: They attract local insects, birds and amphibians, thus strengthening biodiversity.
- Resistant 💪: They adapt better to climatic conditions and local diseases.
- Easy to care for 🧘♀️: Less care, as they are already adapted to the soil and humidity of your region.
1. Oxygenating plants: Guardians of water purity 💧
Oxygenating plants play an essential role in the natural filtration of water and the oxygenation of the pond. Here are some native or European species that are perfect for your natural pond:
Ceratophyllum demersum (Submerged Hornwort) 🌿
This oxygenation champion is a submerged plant that releases oxygen and controls algae by absorbing excess nutrients. It is perfect for a natural pond thanks to its robustness and minimal maintenance.
Potamogeton natans (Floating pondweed) 🍃
This native plant of Europe forms small oval leaves on the surface of the water. It helps to filter the water and regulate the temperature by providing shade. Pondweed is very robust and adapts easily.
2. Purifying plants: The natural filters of your pond 🌾
Some plants absorb excess nutrients (nitrates, phosphates), thus preventing algae proliferation. Here are the most effective ones:
Iris pseudacorus (Marsh Iris) 🌼
This beautiful yellow-flowered native plant is also very effective at purifying water. Its roots absorb excess nutrients and reduce algae, while attracting beneficial insects like dragonflies.
Typha latifolia (Broad-leaved cattail) 🌾
The cattail is a powerful natural filter that stabilizes banks and absorbs impurities. It also creates a habitat for birds and other aquatic animals.
3. Bank plants: Stabilization and aesthetics 🌸
Shoreline plants stabilize the edges of the pond and prevent erosion, while adding an aesthetic touch.
Mentha aquatica (Water mint) 🌿
In addition to perfuming the air, this plant stabilizes banks and attracts bees and butterflies. It is ideal for natural ponds and wetlands.
Carex acutiformis (Acute Sedge) 🌾
This hardy grass is perfect for stabilizing the edges of your pond. It prevents erosion and provides a habitat for small aquatic creatures.
4. Water lilies: Shade and temperature regulation 🌺
Water lilies help regulate water temperature by providing shade, limiting direct sunlight and inhibiting algae growth.
Nymphaea alba (White water lily) 🌸
The white water lily is a must-see in Europe. Its large floating leaves and beautiful white flowers regulate water temperature and create a habitat for fish and other aquatic animals.
5. Submerged plants: Filtration and habitat for wildlife 🐟
Submerged plants provide natural filtration and essential habitat for fish and aquatic invertebrates.
Myriophyllum spicatum (Eurasian watermilfoil) 🌿
An ideal alternative to the now banned waterweed, Eurasian watermilfoil is a submerged plant that helps oxygenate the water and filter impurities. It plays a key role in maintaining the balance of the pond and is perfectly adapted to European environments.
🏞️ A natural basin for a sustainable ecosystem
By choosing native or European plants, you promote a harmonious and natural ecosystem. These plants contribute to the health of the water, attract local wildlife and add natural beauty to your pond. 🌿 By integrating these species into your pond, you will create an aquatic refuge that will enrich the biodiversity of your garden while maintaining a perfect ecological balance.
To create your natural pond, discover our wide range of aquatic plants on Aquishop. We offer species adapted to each need to help you create your own corner of aquatic paradise. 🌸💧
