Water garden

[Deondra]

Does anyone have a water garden that is just simply water and plants in a container? Saw an article in a Rodale book but seems like it might cause algea to grow (he grows them in Chinese pots) even with cornmeal use. Would love to do this as I have no outdoor electrical socket for the usual water garden, just would like to know if anyone else has had good luck.

[Tony M]

Deondra-
I've had a water garden like you describe before. I took a half whiskey barrel and lined it with rubber. At first I had a small frog with a water spitter pump in its mouth. This helped keep things somewhat free of algae until the plants grew. After that, I took the frog out and added some gambusia (mosquito) fish. It's a small investment for a fun project, give it a try.
Tony M

[Deondra]

Thanks for the help, will try to put it in this weekend. What do I do with it in the winter?

[Tony M]

Dump all the plants in the bottom of the barrel. If they start to sprout next spring cut them back and repot if necessary. If not, start over with something new and different. The plants at the bottom will help keep any fish you have alive and hidden.
Tony M

[Connie Tassin]

I've had a half-whiskey barrel pond for three years now. Our water lillies have lasted through some tough winters. In February of this year, the ice storm caused a six inch deep ice covering...And they made it! However, my water iris did not. :(

Good luck with yours!