Anacharis is the old name for Elodea. It has several species - all problematic plants for a swimming pond IMO. The only submerged pond plants that I would introduce would be spiral or corkscrew eel grass or dwarf Sagittaria. All others are way too invasive, spread too fast and get too tall. When you choose water lilies only buy the dwarf or small varieties noted in their descriptions. There are several varieties of water lilies called changables that would be acceptable for small ponds such as: Souix, Chrysantha (aka Graziella), Berit Strawn, Little sue, Indiana, Paul Hariot, Aurora.
Keep as many organic materials out of the pond as possible, don't feed the fish and these will reduce the need for consumption of nutrients. A large biofilter or water circulating through an adjacent wetland would also help consume nutrients. Keep the grass carp out until the plants are out of control. Basically use only tilapia for any needed algae control. All other fish are usually not needed in a swimming pond unless you get lots of water boatmen or backswimmers. then use several only male bluegills for bug control. Read up and do due diligence about how others manage natural swimming ponds.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 05/30/16 09:21 AM.
