Discover the Beauty of Pickerel Rush for Your Pond
So, you’ve got a water feature, or maybe you’re planning to build one. First off, congrats—you’re about to add a whole new level of beauty and tranquility to your outdoor space. But now you might be wondering, “What plants should I add?” Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. Let me introduce you to one of the most beginner-friendly and gorgeous options out there: pickerel rush.
What is Pickerel Rush?
Pickerel rush is a fantastic aquatic plant that belongs to the Pontederia family. Native to North America, it’s a hardy perennial that thrives in shallow water and adds a burst of color to any pond or water garden. With its tall, elegant stems and vibrant purple-blue flowers, pickerel rush is a showstopper during the growing season. Plus, it’s super easy to care for, making it a perfect pick for beginners.
Why Choose Pickerel Rush for Your Pond?
There are plenty of reasons why pickerel rush is a favorite among water gardeners. Here are just a few:
1. Beautiful Blooms
Pickerel rush produces striking flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. These purple-blue spikes not only look amazing but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. It’s like having your own little wildlife haven right in your backyard.
2. Natural Water Filtration
This plant is more than just a pretty face. Pickerel rush helps keep your pond water clean by absorbing excess nutrients that can cause algae blooms. It’s like nature’s own filtration system.
3. Easy to Grow
If you’re new to water gardening, pickerel rush is an excellent choice. It’s hardy, adaptable, and doesn’t require much maintenance. As long as you plant it in the right conditions, it’ll thrive with minimal effort.
4. Provides Habitat
Pickerel rush creates a natural habitat for fish, frogs, and other pond wildlife. Its tall stems offer shade and shelter, making your water feature more inviting to all kinds of critters.
5. Year-Round Interest
Even when it’s not in bloom, pickerel rush adds texture and greenery to your pond. Its lush foliage creates a calming, natural vibe that’s perfect for any water garden.
Where to Plant Pickerel Rush
Pickerel rush is incredibly versatile and can adapt to different parts of your pond or water feature. Here are some tips for finding the perfect spot:
Shallow Water: Pickerel rush does best when planted in 3 to 12 inches of water. You can place it directly in the pond or in a planting basket for easy maintenance.
Sunny Spots: This plant loves sunlight. Aim for a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. It can tolerate some shade, but full sun will give you the best blooms.
Edge of the Pond: Pickerel rush looks stunning along the edges of ponds or streams. Its tall stems create a natural border and soften the lines of your water feature.
How to Plant Pickerel Rush
Planting pickerel rush is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Choose Your Planting Method: You can plant pickerel rush directly in the pond soil or use a planting basket. Using a basket is great for controlling its growth and making it easy to move if needed.
Prepare the Soil: Use a heavy clay or loamy soil that won’t float away. Avoid potting soil, as it’s too light and can cloud your water.
Plant the Rhizome: Place the pickerel rush rhizome in the soil, making sure the crown (where the stems meet the roots) is just above the soil line.
Add Gravel: Cover the soil with a layer of gravel to keep it in place and prevent fish from digging it up.
Submerge the Basket: Slowly lower the basket into the water, ensuring it’s in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight.
Monitor Water Levels: Keep the water level consistent, especially during the first few weeks as the plant establishes itself.
Caring for Pickerel Rush
Once it’s planted, pickerel rush is pretty hands-off. Here are a few tips to keep it looking its best:
Watering
Since it’s an aquatic plant, pickerel rush doesn’t need any extra watering as long as it’s in the pond. Just make sure the water level stays consistent.
Fertilizing
If your pond has fish, their waste will provide natural nutrients for the plant. If not, you can add aquatic plant fertilizer in the spring to give it a boost.
Pruning
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. In late fall, trim back the stems to about 2-3 inches above the crown. This will help it overwinter more effectively.
Overwintering
Pickerel rush is hardy in zones 4-10, so it can handle cold winters. If you’re in a colder region, move the plant to the deepest part of your pond to protect it from freezing.
Dividing
Every 2-3 years, you’ll want to divide your pickerel rush to prevent overcrowding. Simply dig up the plant, separate the rhizomes, and replant them in new locations.
Designing with Pickerel Rush
Pickerel rush isn’t just functional; it’s also a beautiful design element. Here are some ideas for incorporating it into your water feature:
Pair It with Other Aquatic Plants: Pickerel rush looks amazing alongside water lilies, cattails, and iris. Mixing different heights, textures, and colors will give your pond a dynamic, layered look.
Create a Focal Point: Plant a cluster of pickerel rush in a prominent spot to draw the eye. Its tall, striking stems make it a natural focal point.
Use It as a Background Plant: Place it behind shorter plants to create depth and a sense of enclosure around your pond.
Frame a Waterfall: If you’ve got a waterfall or stream, plant pickerel rush on either side to frame the water and add a touch of softness.
Wrapping It Up
Pickerel rush is one of those plants that just makes life easier for water garden enthusiasts, especially if you’re just starting out. It’s beautiful, low-maintenance, and great for your pond’s ecosystem. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of color, create a habitat for wildlife, or simply enjoy a hassle-free plant, pickerel rush checks all the boxes.
So go ahead, give it a try. Your water feature will thank you, and you’ll have a gorgeous, thriving garden that brings joy to your outdoor space. Happy planting!
