Oxygenators

If oxygenators are purchased as bunches of un-rooted cuttings and are to be planted in a newly installed pool, they will stand a better chance of survival and will begin to develop more readily if they are planted in a container. A medium-sized container, about 20 cm (8in) square, will be adequate. It should be lined with a square of permeable material, such as hessian (burlap) or polypropylene, and filled to the brim with soil or aquatic compost (soil mix). Firm down the compost, make some holes with a dibber (dibble), then push the bunches into position. They are usually best arranged with one in the centre and one in each corner, and the bottom of the stems should be just buried. Firm in the stems and top-dress the compost with a layer of washed pea gravel about 2.5cm (1in) thick. The gravel not only prevents soil particles from floating about when the container is immersed but also stops inquisitive fish from disturbing the surface of the soil.

Place the containers on the bottom of the pool as quickly as possible after planting, because the plants curl up very quickly when they are out of water.
If the pool is well established, weigh down the bunches with a small weight which holds the ends of the stems together, and throw them into the centre of the pool, where they will settle into the thin layer of mud on the bottom. Individual plants bought in the plugs of rock wool can be simple thrown into the pool.

Planting an Oxygenator

The un-rooted cuttings of oxygenating plants will flourish best in a new pond if they are first planted in an aquatic container before being placed at the bottom of the pond.

1. Fill a small planting crate with aquatic planting compost (soil mix) to the brim of the container.

2. Using a wooden dibber (dibble), make a hole in the centre of the compost (soil mix) deep enough for the bunch of oxygenating plants to be inserted so that the clasp holding the bunch together is buried in the compost.

3. Firm the compost (soil mix) around the bunch thoroughly so that there is no danger of it floating out when the container is submerged.

4. Place a layer of small chippings or washed pea shingle or gravel over the top of the compost (soil mix). This prevents the particles of soil escaping into the water and gives some protection from inquisitive fish. Immerse in the pond as soon as possible because the soft leaves of submerged plants will desiccate very rapidly when out of water.