Description

Bunched Oxygenator Pond Plant

Bunched oxygenator plants are one of the most important additions to a healthy garden pond. These fast-growing aquatic plants help improve water quality, compete with algae and provide shelter for fish and pond wildlife.

Bunched pond oxygenator plants do just that, they make sure your pond has a good deal of oxygen in it!  They also grow quickly, consuming nutrients that might otherwise be snapped up by algae such as the dreaded blanket weed (if you do find yourself beset by this green menace we have some advice for you here). The RHS recommends four to five bunches (each containing three to four stems) as sufficient for each square metre or yard of pond surface area​.

Typical pond care would dictate you drain your pond every 5 – 10 years depending on the size and rake out all your silt and established oxygenators before re-stocking. Having good access to your oxygenators is a good idea as they can become a little enthusiastic at times. If they do start taking over simply lift them out and give them a trim, making sure you remember to take the bits and pieces you’ve removed with you!

The usual bunched pond oxygenator that we have available in season is myriophyllum brasiliensis (red stemmed parrots feather) as suggested by the name it has red stems that contrast nicely with the lush green feathery leaves.

Bunched Pond Oxygenator FAQ

Do Bunched Pond Oxygenator plants stop algae?

Yes and no. These plants extract a lot of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous) from the water to sustain themselves. This in turn reduce the available nutrients that algae, such as blanketweed would otherwise feed on. However, these plants are not a substitute for good housekeeping, so maintaining your water quality and keeping the pond free from organic debris is just as much of a contributor as the plants themselves. Why not check out this article about blanketweed and other methods of dealing with it.

How many bunches do I need?

Minimum of 3 bunches per 1000L will make a difference in your pond.

Can oxygenating plants take over your pond?

Yes, if the nutrients are there. They can sometimes grow out of control if left unchecked, which is why it’s a good idea to pull some out periodically to allow more swimming space for your fish.

Are these plants compatible with Sturgeon?

Not a good idea. Sturgeon can sometimes get caught up in blanket weed and pond plants. If the fish is unable to break free, it will drown. Best avoided.

Feature	Information
Plant Type	Oxygenating pond plant
Suitable For	Wildlife ponds, koi ponds, garden ponds
Growth Rate	Fast
Light Requirements	Full sun to partial shade
Benefits	Oxygenation, algae reduction, fish shelter
Placement	Fully submerged

 

If you have any questions about this plant, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions.

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