Lily Pads for Ponds

Lily pads prefer the slow-moving water found in ponds, and while these plants are aesthetically interesting they also tend to the pond environment. Like other plants, lily pads convert carbon dioxide into oxygen through photosynthesis, which increases the amount of oxygen in the pond. Lily pads also hinder excessive growth of algae, which in turn creates a more inhabitable space for fish and other marine life.

Hardy water lilies can remain in water throughout the year; however, these lilies only bloom from May to September. The flowers feature a range of colors and shapes. This type of water lily is characterized by its circular pads, which feature a waxy surface; thus, water beads off the pads to prevent them from sinking. While the life cycle of a hardy water lily flower ranges from three to five days, new flowers form throughout the blooming season. The Pond Digger states that year-round blooming is possible for ponds located in areas that do not frost during the winter months.

Tropical water lilies feature pads in nontraditional shapes and are much larger than the hardy water lilies' pads. Like hardy water lilies, tropical lilies bloom during the summer months (when water reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) and the flowers of these lilies can span more than 12 inches in diameter. Tropical water lilies continue to bloom throughout fall until the first frost; however, if the pond is located in a frost-free zone, the lilies can bloom throughout the year.

Artificial lily pads are ideal for those who wish to have the appearance of lilies but do not want to take the time to plant and care for these water plants. While artificial lilies can be aesthetically appealing, the pads will not benefit the pond's ecosystem. Most artificial lily pads are manufactured out of a silk-polyester blend and are coated with a fade-resistant surface to maintain color vibrancy throughout the year. The pads float due to a foam center; however, if you have Koi within the pond, ensure the pads feature protection around the foam disc to prevent the fish from biting and ingesting the foam. Even though these pads do not provide the same benefits as natural lily pads, they can provide shelter for marine life, prevent algae blooms due to their ability to block sunlight and provide a resting place for frogs and other creatures.