Water lilies maintain the well-being of the ponds they inhabit. They provide shade to keep the water temperature down during the hot summer months. Blocking out some sunlight, the lilies help to keep the algae growth down. Their shade also gives shelter to any fish that may be in the pond. They also absorb nutrients in the water that would normally feed undesirable green plants, keeping the water clear and clean-looking. Just a couple of miles from our home, the Jewel of the Pond is blooming quite lovely. Click on CONTINUE READING for images.