STEP BY STEP Repot aquatic plants

Move aquatic plants into larger containers now, just as they’re beginning to sprout fresh growth. Choose an open-mesh aquatic basket rather than a pot and use John Innes No. 2 compost or aquatic compost, so you don’t add too many new nutrients to the pond. Once the plant is settled into its new container, lower it back into the pond slowly – make sure the water soaking through it doesn’t dislodge the compost.

CUT off the old basket with a 1 knife, trying not to break the roots growing out through the holes. Snip off any that do get damaged.

POT UP into a larger basket 2 using loam-based compost. Firm it in, leaving room for mulch, then soak the compost thoroughly.

ADD a thick layer of gravel 3 to weigh down the compost. If your pond has fish in it, use larger stones that they can’t dislodge.