Planting Essentials for Pond Plants

How often should I re-pot pond plants, and why is it important?

Re-potting pond plants is an important part of keeping both plants and ponds healthy. Most pond plants benefit from re-potting every 1–2 years, as roots can become overcrowded, nutrients depleted and growth restricted over time. Signs a plant needs re-potting include reduced flowering, weak growth, or roots tightly circling the basket.

Re-potting allows you to refresh aquatic compost, trim excess roots and reposition plants at the correct depth. Using the right materials is essential - aquatic soil should always be used instead of garden soil, as it’s low in nutrients and won’t cloud the water. Gravel topping helps anchor plants and prevents compost from escaping, while slow-release aquatic fertiliser supports healthy growth without encouraging algae. When done correctly, re-potting improves plant performance and helps maintain clear, balanced pond water.