Floating Plant Basket

Intro: Floating Plant Basket

Floating plants are a wonderful addition to fish ponds. With few supplies you can turn a simple water plant basket into a floating one.

STEP 1: Materials and Tools

The only tool you need is scissors. And the material we'll use for the floating ring is pipe insulation. We'll also need heavy duty cable tie straps.

For the basket, I've chosen one designed for water loving plants. It's perforations allow for water to freely move through and for roots to grow outside of the basket.

STEP 2: Attaching the Insulation

Using the cable straps, create very loose rings around the basket at the top.Space them out every two inches or so.

Now start threading the insulation. We want the insulation to be firmly attached, but not compressed or squeezed so that it's kinked or collapsed. Tighten the straps as you go.

When you get to the end, cut the insulation and trim it so that it's a clean joint. Use multiple cable straps to hold the ends in place.

STEP 3: Add Plants and Float

Now that you're done, you can add you plants and float them in your pond.

What kinds of plants? Look for plants that like constant moisture. Many rushes and sedge fit this. Corkscrew rush is an attractive one that thrives and handles harsh winters, too. The roots and leaves that sit in the water will provide a good source of food for your fish.

Comments

[lizbridgers1]

Is the pipe insulation safe for fish?

[JettaKnight]

Yes it is.

Since then, I've switched to square baskets that I've put into much more rigid black foam.

[craftclarity]

Cool idea! Thanks for sharing this!

[diy_bloke]

I was just thinking about constructing some islands but the commercial ones are way too expensive. I had not thought about this material yet. Thanks for the tip