Common Duckweed (Lemna minor) is a tiny but mighty floating aquatic plant, perfect for natural ponds, aquariums, and water gardens. With its small, round leaves and fast-growing nature, duckweed helps control algae, reduce excess nutrients, and provide shade and shelter for aquatic life.
Why You'll Love It:
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Fast-growing natural water filter that improves water quality
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Provides shade to limit algae growth in ponds
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Offers cover and food for fish, frogs, and aquatic invertebrates
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Great for naturalistic or wildlife-friendly water features
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Low-maintenance and easy to introduce
Plant Care Tips:
☀️ Light: Full sun to partial shade; thrives in well-lit water surfaces
💧 Water: Free-floating; no need to plant in soil – just place on the surface
🌱 Soil: Not required; absorbs nutrients directly from the water
🌡 Temperature: Grows best between 60–85°F (16–29°C); may die back in freezing temps
🌿 Humidity: Thrives in humid environments and still or slow-moving water
✂️ Pruning: Skim excess growth to control spread and maintain balance
🍽 Feeding: Typically doesn't need fertilizing; thrives on pond nutrients
🌸 Propagation: Reproduces rapidly by division; no intervention needed
⚠️ Toxicity: Non-toxic and often used as animal or fish food in natural settings