Aquatic plants may be planted directly into soil beds or pockets created in the pool, or more simply by placing them into containers such as crates or baskets.

Containers

The simplest way of growing water plants is by planting them into purpose-made containers. This makes it easy to change the planting arrangement at any time or to remove the plants for maintenance. Containers should have a flat, wide base that will ensure that even tall marginals will remain stable. The sides of the containers are usually made of an open lattice that allows gases and water to flow through the planting soil. To prevent soil from escaping from the basket, they should be lined with a layer of hessian or close-weave polypropylene sheeting.

Soil Beds

If you are creating a wildlife pond, you may want to consider including a soil bed at the bottom of the pool and along marginal shelves. Water plants may then be planted directly into the soil. However, this method would not be suitable for other ponds, as species planted in this way tend to grow very vigorously, often swamping their neighbours. Subsequent maintenance of plants is also very tricky.

Planting Pockets

Permanent planting pockets may be incorporated into the design of a new pond and planted up before the pool is filled. This can supply a natural looking growing environment whilst still controlling the spread of invasive plants. These planting areas should be built so that they provide a soil depth of at least 23 cm (9 in).