The last group of pond plants are the floaters. Floating plants do not require potting; they are simply placed on the surface of the pond with their roots drawing nutrients directly from the water.Like deep water plants, floating plants offer great shade to the pond. They are also a good alternative plant for a pond where potted plants may not be an option. However, some floating plants are quite invasive and excess growth may need periodically removing. Also, some non-native floating plants are very intolerant of cold weather and must be brought indoors during the winter.