I'm even considered tying rope around the plant and
attaching the ends under the rock on the sides of
the pond or maybe over the sides and into the ground.

I have several large mesh plant baskets I've hung from the sides of
the pond using large/long cable ties and 8 inch spikes. The spikes
are in the soil surrounding the pond and under some second-level
border rocks. They've held for several years.....

Here's a link to an older pic of one of these baskets.

http://community.webshots.com/photo/...52148644efWHrx

Hope this helps.

Jim
Zone 8a - Dallas, Texas
Pond, Veggie Filter, Pond Maintenance & Pond Tour Pics:
http://community.webshots.com/user/dallas75248