How to Plant Hardy Water Lilies

Hardy water lilies are a beautiful addition to any pond or water garden. These plants are easy to care for and can add a pop of color to your outdoor space. If you're looking to add some hardy water lilies to your pond, here's how to plant them:

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot

The first step in planting hardy water lilies is choosing the right pot. You'll want to choose a pot that is at least 16-18 inches wide and 8-10 inches deep. The pot should be made of a sturdy material such as plastic, fiberglass, or concrete. It's important to choose a pot that has drainage holes in the bottom so that excess water can drain out.

Step 2: Add Soil

Next, you'll want to add soil to the pot. Use a heavy, clay-based soil or a soil specifically designed for aquatic plants. Fill the pot about halfway with soil, making a shallow indentation in the center. The indentation should be deep enough to hold the water lily tuber.

Step 3: Add Fertilizer

Before planting the water lily tuber, it's important to add fertilizer to the soil. Use a slow-release fertilizer that is specifically designed for aquatic plants. Sprinkle the fertilizer on top of the soil in the pot, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for how much to use.

Step 4: Plant the Water Lily Tuber

Now it's time to plant the water lily tuber. Gently place the tuber in the center of the indentation in the soil. The tuber should be placed with the sprouts facing up and the roots facing down. Cover the tuber with soil, making sure to gently pack the soil around the tuber to hold it in place.

Step 5: Add Gravel

After planting the water lily tuber, you'll want to add a layer of gravel on top of the soil. This will help hold the soil in place and prevent fish from digging up the tuber. Add enough gravel to cover the soil completely.

Step 6: Add Water

Once you've planted the water lily tuber and added gravel, it's time to add water. Fill the pot to within 2-3 inches of the top with water. The water should be no deeper than 18 inches, as water lilies prefer shallow water.

Step 7: Place the Pot in the Pond

Finally, it's time to place the pot in your pond. Set the pot on a sturdy surface, such as a cinder block or patio stone. Make sure the pot is submerged to the correct depth for your water lily variety. Some water lilies prefer shallow water while others prefer deeper water, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your variety.

With these simple steps, you can easily plant hardy water lilies and enjoy their beauty all summer long!