Huh! Wouldn't have occurred to me that the roots might block the drain. Just now starting the process of putting together a skippy filter for a small pond, and was thinking about putting plants in top like you have done.

So I'm glad you shared about the possible blocking problem!

Koyjoy: Are you sure you mean they blocked the overflow drain or do you mean the main discharge pipe to the pond ?

Jeff

I had the same type of problem and got a sump pump low water shut-off gizmo at Lowes for about $20. Saves the heartache and panic of an empty pond with fishies flopping around in almost no water.

Actually Jeff the roots blocked both the waterfall drain and the overflow drain. This happened about three times last summer. It's worth the hassle though. The roots are excellent bio filtration for the pond.

Jenny

Good luck Jenny - sounds like it just may work. I'd keep a close eye on it this summer though.

I've nerver grown watercress - does it grow fast ?

Jeff

watercress grows fast in flowing water. I have it in a stream. That or the waterfall area like Jenny is doing. and you can put it in salads.

Looks really good Jenny. : )