The past few decades have seen a revolution in garden pond technology and this has lead to an increase in the availability of all types of water plants. The pond has now become an important part of the overall design of a garden and water planting is often included in the initial planning of an outdoor pond.

Planting styles can be formal (classic or geometric) or informal, summer seasonal or themed (using selected colours and fragrances). The use of textured foliage is ideal for creating dramatic architectural effects.

There are many types of water planting including hardy submerged and floating plants, hardy side planting, woody waterside planting and water meadow, marshland and bog plants.

Fish will ideally supplement their diet with suitable green plants growing underwater and will make use of certain submerged aquatics to deposit and rear fish fry.

Perhaps one of the most popular water plants is the Waterlily (or Nymphaea). There are an extraordinary number of varieties available - some preferring to grow in particular depths of water. The round flat leaves provide excellent cover for fish, molluscs, amphibians and reptiles and the brightly coloured heavy floral crowns give a fantastic summer display.