Garden pond waterfall Planting. The plants that can be used largely depend on if the waterfall is is shade or in a sunny position for example plants that do well in sun near a waterfall are small Japanese acers and plants for a shady area could be ferns, primulas and hostas. Both plants would benefit from the humidity created by the waterfall. If you have a water project which you require some suggestions for planting just contact our free gardening advice service