Broad Waterweed
Broad Waterweed
This oxygen plant, called Elodea Canadensis in Latin, comes, like Narrow Waterweed, from North America. Probably brought along with the trading ships, this plant first appeared in England. Since the early 20th century, this aquatic plant has been found throughout Europe. This submerged aquatic plant is on the red list. This means that this plant is rapidly declining in the Netherlands. The general deterioration of water quality is to blame.
Broad Waterweed does not have a great name but it is perfectly applicable in the pond. It is a fast-growing oxygen plant. Besides adding oxygen to the water, this plant gets its nutrition directly from the water, just like algae. Applying enough of these aquatic plants thus helps combat algae. Clear water is thus within reach!
Broad Waterweed Properties
- Native plant.
- Edible for fish.
- Good against algae.
- Stems up to more than 1 metre long.
- Nutrient-rich water desirable.
Frequently asked questions
What does Broad Waterweed look like?
This aquatic plant has thick stems and bright green, wreathed leaves. The leaves are slightly translucent. By the way, not to be confused with Narrow Waterweed, which has much thinner stems. This species usually forms small white flowers in summer.
How to plant Broad Waterweed?
Because these aquatic plants can draw their nutrients directly from the water column, it is not necessarily necessary to plant these aquatic plants in a pond basket for growth. However, the plant does produce roots when placed in the soil. This is particularly useful in the pond, because otherwise it may float rather loosely.
In the pond, about 4-5 bunches per cubic metre are recommended. This gives the best results on clarity, oxygen production and competition with algae.
What is the planting depth of Broad Waterweed?
Broad Waterweed thrives at a depth of 50 cm to 2 metres underwater. The plant can grow in both shallow and deeper water, but requires sufficient light for healthy development. Make sure the water is clear enough so that sunlight can reach the plant at the right depth for optimal growth.
Is Broad Waterweed hardy?
Yes, Broad Waterweed is completely hardy. It can survive in cold water and continues to grow throughout the year, albeit more slowly in the winter months. The stems and roots remain intact, so the plant sprouts quickly in spring as soon as temperatures rise.
Is Broad Waterweed native?
No, Broad Waterweed is not a plant native to the Netherlands. It is native to North America and has spread into Europe via introduction. Despite being an exotic species, broad waterweed is widespread in European waters and is often used in ponds because of its useful properties for the aquatic environment.
What is the flowering time of Broad Waterweed?
Broad Waterweed (Elodea canadensis) blooms from June to August. The flowers are small, white or pale pink and rise above the water surface on thin stems. Although the flowers are not very conspicuous, they contribute to the reproduction of the plant, especially in their natural habitat.
How should you maintain Broad Waterweed?
Broad Waterweed requires little maintenance, but it is important to control its rapid growth. Regular pruning or removal of excess stems helps prevent the plant from overgrowing other aquatic plants. By controlling the plant, it remains useful for oxygen levels in the water and helps control algae.
Want to buy Broad Waterweed?
We have good experiences with oxygen plants from the Pond Master. Featherweed is for sale via De Vijvermeester's webshop. Here you can find beautiful bunches of high quality.
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