Ponds, streams and other water features can offer us the opportunity to grow plants species that would not survive elsewhere, in a distinctive and attractive setting. The range of water plants falls mainly into four categories: oxygenators, deep-water plants, surface floaters and marginals; a truly successful water garden will include examples from all four groups. Moisture-loving and bog plants may also be introduced into the planting scheme, depending on the water feature design.

In this section, we take a look at the plants in all these categories in more detail, as well as providing some valuable planting tips and advice.