How to Plant Hardy Water Lily Rhizomes

Water lilies add a touch of beauty to any outdoor space. They come in different colors and sizes, and each has its own unique features. One of the most important factors to consider when planting water lilies is the type of rhizome. In this article, we will discuss how to plant hardy water lily rhizomes and some important tips to ensure they thrive.

What are Hardy Water Lily Rhizomes?

A rhizome is the stem of a plant that grows horizontally underground. Hardy water lily rhizomes are a type of rhizome that can withstand cold weather and harsh winter conditions. These rhizomes are typically brown or black and have small buds on them. When planted correctly, the buds will grow into beautiful water lilies.

Steps to Plant Hardy Water Lily Rhizomes

Planting hardy water lily rhizomes is a straightforward process that requires some basic steps. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Choose the Right Container

Choose a container that is suitable for the size of the rhizome you want to plant. The container should be at least 2 feet deep and 2 feet wide. It's also essential to ensure that the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Step 2: Add Soil to the Container

Fill the container with heavy loam soil, which is ideal for water lilies. The soil should be densely packed and moist. It's also a good idea to add some aquatic plant fertilizer to the soil to provide nutrients for the rhizome to grow.

Step 3: Place the Rhizome on the Soil

Place the hardy water lily rhizome on the soil with its buds facing upward. Ensure that it is sitting comfortably on the soil, with its roots stretching out.

Step 4: Cover the Rhizome with More Soil

Add another layer of soil to cover the rhizome gently. It's crucial not to cover the buds, as they need to be exposed to light and water to grow. Leave a small depression around the rhizome to collect water.

Step 5: Add Water

Add water to the container slowly, filling it to about one inch below the rim. It's important not to disturb the soil when adding water to prevent it from clumping.

Step 6: Place the Container in the Correct Location

Place the container in a sunny location to ensure that the water lily receives adequate sunlight. It's also crucial to ensure that the location is sheltered from the wind to prevent the water from moving and damaging the plant.

Tips for Growing Hardy Water Lily Rhizomes

Here are some important tips to keep in mind when growing hardy water lily rhizomes:

Monitor the water temperature: Water lilies thrive in water that is between 68°F to 86°F. It's essential to monitor the water temperature to ensure that it stays within this range.

Remove dead leaves: Dead leaves and flowers should be removed from the plant regularly to prevent them from rotting and affecting the quality of the water.

Fertilize regularly: Hardy water lilies require nutrients to grow, so it's necessary to fertilize them regularly with aquatic plant fertilizer.

Divide the rhizomes: After a few years, the rhizomes will grow and need to be divided to prevent overcrowding. Divide them in the spring and replant them to ensure healthy growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hardy water lily rhizomes are a great addition to any outdoor water feature. Follow the above steps to ensure that you plant them correctly and use the tips to help them thrive. Enjoy the beauty of your water lilies and the peace they bring to your outdoor space.