The pike weed keeps its roots completely in the water. But the flowers need fresh air. The plant must not be planted too deep so that the flower stalks can protrude from the pond. With the recommendations of the experts you are on the safe side.

The Pontederia cordata is only planted up to 30cm deep

An emergent plant

The pikeweed, offered by Pontederia, is one of the emergent plants. These are plants that inhabit two different areas at the same time with their plant parts: water and air. While the roots and leaf bases disappear completely under water, leaves and flowers like to be surrounded by air.

Shallow water zone is ideal

The pikeweed is a water hyacinth plant. Originally it comes from swampy areas of North America. There you will find a low water level and a loamy-muddy bottom.

If you want to offer this plant its preferred living conditions in this country as well, it must be planted in the shallow water area of the pond. She won't feel comfortable in the middle of a deep pond, as the water will literally fill her up to the bud, or even drown her completely.

The pike herb can also feel at home in moor gardens. Planting in large tubs is also conceivable, as long as it is always humid enough.

Various types of pike weed

In order to find the ideal depth in the shallow water zone, you should know which pike weed you have in your hands. Several varieties are available on the market. They reach different heights.

There are specimens that grow more than 1.5 m tall. Others, on the other hand, only manage 50 cm. The flower stalks can also be of different lengths. Both are factors that affect planting depth.

planting depth

Somewhere in the range of 10 to 40 cm is the optimal depth for a pike weed. Here are the values for two popular strains:

  • Pontederia lanceolata (giant pike weed): up to 40 cm
  • Pontederia cordata: 10 to 30 cm

The ideal planting depth is usually indicated on the sales packaging of aquatic or pond plants. You should stick to that.

Also pay attention to other aspects

It is not enough if one area of the pond allows for the ideal planting depth. In addition, the place should also satisfy the location requirements. The pike weed wants to be reached by the sun. Partial shade is still tolerated, shade on the other hand is not possible at all.

tips

Plant the pike weed with a basket. This means that it can easily be taken out of the pond in autumn to overwinter indoors.

Category:

Vegetable garden