To continue the pond rejuvenation, host Maureen Gilmer turns her attention to the pond's plants. Water plants are vital to a water garden's ecosystem, especially if the pond houses fish. When fish release waste into the water, it turns to nitrogen, which can result in excessive algae. Just as spring is the ideal time to clean the pond, it's also the best time to divide existing water plants to create more al Expert Tip (Vergil Hettick, Garden Curator): Water plants that make good choices for northern regions include hardy water lilies, water irises and cattails; any bog plant should do well in a northern climate. Clean pond filter by dissembling it and spraying it gently with hose. Refill pond with hose, adding water conditioner as you go. Read directions on water conditioner carefully. Before returning water plants to the pond, remove them from their containers and divide with a sharp knife. This should be done regularly since water plants are so prolific. Once out of their pots, you'll notice growing points on the plants, which indicate where they can be divided. For example, one plant with three growing points can be divided into three plants.
GUESTS :
Robert Smaus
Gardening expert and author
Website: bobsgardenpath.com
Vergil Hettick
California State University Long Beach
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90840
Phone: 562-985-4111
Email: hetix@pacball.com; jgarden@csulb.edu
Website: www.csulb.edu/~jgarden
Curator, Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
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