Portable Pond

Half barrels make wonderful pond containers.

Galvanized metal tubs can also be used as water garden containers.

Be sure to include oxygenators and floating-type plants to cut down on algal growth and keep the pond's environment healthy.

Steps:

1. Check the container to make sure it's water-tight by filling it with water before you go to bed. Make sure you do this in the pond's final resting spot; otherwise it'll be tough to move without emptying it. If there's no sign of leakage the following morning, then you've got the perfect pot.

2. Add plants. When deciding on which ones grow, think of your water feature as you would a container garden. Select plants that offer height as the focal point and "fillers" to use at the base.

   • Place the marginal, or outermost, plants first. Use bog plants, such as iris and horsetail rush, that love shallow water. Place the pots about an inch below the water surface. Add a layer of rocks to the top of each pot to hold the soil in place. Some plants may need a brick or two positioned under them to raise them.

   • Use flowering aquatics like lotus for added interest. One option, water lily, covers the surface, preventing algae build-up and keeping the water cool. When planting water lily, you'll need to plant it at least 12 inches below the water surface. Carefully position it on the bottom of your pond container and let the pads float on top of the water.

   • The most important plants to use are oxygenators. These plants actually release oxygen into the water and consume excess nutrients. Hornwort is one oxygenating plant that works by being submerged in the water. If this one isn't for you, select another one. No matter your choice, don't skip this plant. Oxygenators help keep the pond environment healthy.

   • Add some floaters like parrot's feather, water hyacinth and water lettuce that seem to drift along with water surface. They're also good choices because their root systems act as a filter to help clean the water.

There shouldn't be much maintenance required for your pond in a pot. Just be sure to cut off any decomposing leaves. Ideally your aquatic plants should cover at least 60 percent of the water surface to help prevent algal growth. For the best results, pick a location that gets at least four to six hours of sun during the day. Add water as necessary to compensate for evaporation.

Note: Stagnant water can draw mosquitoes, so you may have to add mosquito control designed especially for water features. Simply pop the repellent into the water to prevent mosquito larvae from hatching.