Soil & Dirt for Pond Plants

Characteristics

• Good soil and dirt for pond plants contain plenty of clay. Heavy clay soil stays in the container and anchors the aquatic plant to the bottom of the pond. Ordinary clay garden soil works best for pond plants.

Preparation

• Sterilize the garden soil before using by removing all plants, bugs and worms from the dug up dirt. Break up the soil and spread it 4 inches deep in an oven-proof container. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and heat for 30 minutes in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the pan covered until completely cooled.

Warning

• Do not use regular soil containing a high amount of organic content. Potting soil is lightweight and will float away. This type does not anchor the roots to the bottom of the pond. Do not use soil with fertilizer added since it will pollute the pond.

Care

• Aquatic plants are heavy feeders and need regular fertilizing. Use special pond plant fertilizer capsules each month. Insert them into the top 2 to 4 inches of soil in the container. Add a layer of gravel and small stones to the top off the container to help keep the soil in place.