Started Cattail at the wrong time — lessons learned

I planted Cattail at entirely the wrong point in the growing calendar and spent the first few months wondering what I'd done wrong. blanketweed algae competing for nutrients in established ponds didn't help matters. Once I understood planting in aquatic baskets with specialist pond compost things improved substantially.

extraordinary flower forms rising above or floating on the water is what makes this plant worth persisting with. In a formal ornamental pond with clear water and reflections it finally looks as good as I'd imagined. first leaf pads emerging at the water surface in spring redeemed the whole effort. If you're starting out: do your timing research before you plant.