Water Garden Gravel: Yes or No?

Having gravel in your pond provides a larger surface area for beneficial bacteria and plant growth.

Large, deep koi ponds rarely use gravel, since the gravel is hard to clean when it is 6 to 10 feet down at the pond bottom. new2515/Shutterstock

Q: We have a new pond, and the question came up about lining the pond with pea- or quarter-size gravel. My water garden friends say they have done it and taken it out. What is your opinion?

A: There is a great deal of confusion and discussion about gravel in a pond. It helps to know the size and style of pond you want to add the gravel to. Large, deep koi ponds rarely use gravel, since the gravel is hard to clean when it is 6 to 10 feet down at the pond bottom. A simple, shallow water garden that is filled with plants can be easy to maintain.