Burtons 1 Metre Pond Planter with 600mm Weir

Burtons 1 Metre Pond Planter with 600mm Water Return Weir

A raised planted return for koi ponds, formal ponds and filter outlets

The Burtons 1m Pond Planter combines an aquatic planting trough with a broad 600mm return weir. It allows marginal plants to sit above or beside the main pond where roots and compost are protected from inquisitive koi, while the returning water creates an attractive sheet or broken cascade.

At 1000mm long, 300mm wide and 300mm high, it is substantial enough to form a proper planted feature rather than a token pot balanced at the edge. The weir projects approximately 170mm, helping water clear the supporting wall or coping before it returns to the pond.

Our practical advice: the stated 5,000 litres per hour is a maximum. Start with a controllable supply and balance the flow so the weir runs evenly without flooding the planting area or washing fine material into the pond.

Key specifications

• Overall size: 1000 x 300 x 300mm
• Weir width: 600mm
• Weir overhang: approximately 170mm
• Maximum recommended flow: 5,000 litres per hour
• Two 1-inch inlets supplied with a hosetail and blanking cap
• Can hold up to approximately 16kg of Burtons FAR filter media when used as a media return
• Manufactured by Burtons Aquatics in the UK

Planting the trough

Use properly contained aquatic compost and choose plants whose final height and root habit suit the 300mm-wide trough. Low marginals soften the weir, while taller irises, rushes or moisture-loving plants create structure behind it. Avoid loose ordinary garden soil, which can cloud the pond and add nutrients.

For baskets, aquatic soil and suitable planting supplies, see our pond planting accessories. Leave enough room to lift and divide plants without dismantling the return pipework.

Using the planter as part of the filtration return

The chamber can also hold suitable biological media, but it should not be treated as a complete filter on its own. Water distribution, pre-filtration, oxygen and maintenance access still matter. If plants and media are combined, keep roots from compacting the flow path and make sure the chamber can be drained and cleaned.

Support and installation

A full planter is heavy. Build a level support that carries the complete base, not just the ends, and allow for water, saturated planting media and stone decoration. Fit isolation or a controllable pump supply, test the weir at maximum intended flow and make certain overflowing water cannot track behind the pond wall.

Frequently asked questions

Can koi eat the plants?

The planter keeps the main root area outside the pond, greatly reducing direct access, although trailing foliage may still reach the fish.

Can it replace my main pond filter?

No. It can provide useful planted or biological polishing, but the full system still needs suitable mechanical and biological filtration.

What pump flow should I use?

Use a controllable flow up to the 5,000 l/h maximum and adjust it to produce an even return across the weir.

Does it need a solid base?

Yes. Support the entire planter on a strong, level structure designed for its filled weight.

Can I use ordinary compost?

No. Use aquatic planting media contained in suitable baskets or planting zones to reduce clouding and nutrient release.

How many inlets does it have?

There are two 1-inch inlets; a hosetail and blanking cap allow the chosen connection to be used.

Complete the planted return

Use a low-nutrient aquatic soil rather than ordinary garden compost, and contain it securely so that flow across the planter does not wash planting media into the pond. Our pond planting supplies section includes baskets and other useful planting materials.

For a complete planted return, choose suitable marginal pond plants whose preferred planting depth, eventual height and spread suit the trough. Leave access for trimming roots and clearing the weir.