What Kind of Plants Would Attract Fish Around a Pond?

The waterl lily gives fish both shelter and an insect food source.

In a healthy pond, approximately 10 to 20 percent of the pond floor is occupied by aquatic plants. Pond vegetation promotes pond health by providing fish with food, oxygen, and shelter for bedding and reproduction.

Water Lilies

Water lilies give fish excellent shelter. These flowering plants have a high reproduction rate and draw insects to the water's surface.

Oxygenators

Species of oxygenators replace carbon dioxide in the water with oxygen. Most oxygenators float in the water and provide a healthy environment for fish.

Marginals

Marginals such as marsh marigold, arrow head and iris grow in shallow water along a pond's edge. Like other aquatic plants, marginals attract various species of insects that fish eat.

Floaters

Water soldiers, fairy moss and greater bladderwort are aquatic flowering plants that, aside from being attractive in appearance, draw bugs to the water and provide protection for fish.

Marsh Plants

Bullrush and cattail grow out of the water on the edges of ponds. While adding variety and beauty to your pond, these plants promote pond health by giving fish shelter.

References

• Missouri Department of Conservation: Aquatic Plants
• Hints and Things: Stock and Maintain a Garden Pond