Polly - I use the regular 1 gallon nursery pots, too. I put a coffee filter in the bottom and then fill it with the Walmart brand "Special Kitty" litter. It's only in the red bag!The water seems to stay much cleaner and I have less problems with bacteria. (Though algae is always a problem in full sun.) My mosquito fish seem to like it too! Here is a photo of the Walmart brand Special Kitty litter bag. It is very cheap for a 25 lb. bag. :-)
For anyone interested ....
I have way too many Mexicana waterlilies. They are hardy water lilies. Quoted from the Texas Water Lily site where I get all my water lilies from in co-ops:
"Nymhaea “Mexicana“ Hardy from zone 4-11. Plant Size: Medium. Its own species native to North America, flower bright yellow, 4“- 7“ across. Has a 4'- 6' spread, mexicana root system. Leaves are green. Will grow in 6“ to 3' of water. Best to grow in 1.5' of water. You can use a 2 or 3 gallon container for this one. Dr. Strawn secret in his creations is this lily. The flower holds itself well above the waters surface. Watch out though this lily will take over an earthen pond pretty quick and once in your pond it's almost impossible to get rid of. I would only use it in a lined pond and make sure to have it in a large no-hole container. Full sun"
I have 7 that need a new home. I am keeping 11 of them for the one pre-formed pond because the fish like these water lilies so much. The pads stick up out of the water, so they shade and protect the fish from predators. If anyone wants some of them, I will give them away if you pay for the shipping. The blooms are yellow. They multiply readily! (See photo of blooms and plants.) Send me a private a-mail if you are interested.
Walmart Special Kitty litter RED bag:
Mexicana hardy waterlily:
