More aquatic plants for cleaner water in the Netherlands
Improve water quality Netherlands with aquatic plants
Water quality in Dutch waters is hollowing out. Drought threatens underwater life as ditches and small waters run dry or drop in water level, and the use of chemicals pollutes the water. Animal life, and with it biodiversity, is under pressure. We, Van der Velde Aquatic Plants, are pleased to contribute to solving this social problem. We do this by advising parties on the application of aquatic plants and we have the necessary native plant species available for many water features.
Marine life for biodiversity
What you don't see doesn't exist. That statement does not apply when we talk about life under and near water. The many rivers, streams, fens and whatnot in our country offer countless birds, plants, insects and other animals the chance to (over)live. Most of them are indispensable for a balanced biodiversity in the Netherlands and therefore also for humans. Applying the right (purifying) aquatic plants improves the quality of the water. As a result, more animals and insects are able to find a place in the water.
What is the water quality like in the Netherlands?
Unfortunately, our waters are in bad shape. Water quality is poor or downright bad in many places, and because of drought, low water levels threaten marine life. Some municipalities issue boating bans in the hope that this will allow aquatic plants to grow better in the shallow water. Culprits of the lousy water quality, especially in our country's smaller waters, are often the use of pesticides and fertilizers, among other things. And a greater danger is looming: it is becoming increasingly difficult to turn polluted water into clean drinking water. So it's high time for action, and we are happy to lend a helping hand.
The more aquatic plants, the better
Aquatic plant grower and pond specialist Simon van der Velde has over 35 years of experience growing many types of aquatic plants. He is an advocate of water features that are self-sustaining without the application of artificial means or devices and advises many companies and individuals on this. The solution to polluted waters - whether a canal, lake or ditch - is to apply an ample amount of aquatic plants. For example, perennial, hardy water lilies from our own nursery. You can place these water plants directly into larger bodies of water without having to plant them, because they do that themselves. Water lilies are useful aquatic plants because they improve water quality; they keep the sun out of the water so that it warms up less quickly and algae do not have a chance. At the same time, they provide a (hiding) place for amphibians, fish and insects. In our nursery these hardy water lilies are available per 30 pieces, perfect to place in large numbers.
A boost with reeds and lesser cattails
Definitely one of Simon's recommendations is the riparian reed (Phragmites Australis) plant. This very hardy plant does well in less to very nutrient-rich soil and can also be placed in both fresh and brackish water. Reed provides opportunities for insects to nest in the stems, and amphibians and birds choose their spots among the reeds. Even beavers and otters find their way into a reed bed. At the water's edge, you'll often see among the reeds, such as lesser cattail (Typha angustifolia). This riparian plant is an excellent water purifier. The plant does this by transporting oxygen to its roots, where water-purifying bacteria in turn settle. These organisms do their work there, breaking down nitrates and nitrites in the water. Both reed and cattail are an asset to water that needs purification and where biodiversity needs a boost. Both reed and cattail are available from Van der Velde Waterplants in large quantities.
Need more information or a consultation with Simon? Contact us and we will be happy to assist you
