How to Plant Water Chestnuts

Water chestnuts, also known as Eleocharis dulcis or Trapa natans, are a nutritious and delicious vegetable used in many Asian dishes. They are technically not nuts, but rather corms – a type of underground bulb. If you’re interested in growing your own water chestnuts in your garden or container, here are some basic steps to guide you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Growing Environment

Water chestnuts grow best in warm, muddy, and sunny environments. You can grow them in a container or pond as long as the water is at least six inches deep. If you choose to grow them in a container, make sure it has drainage holes and fill it with a mixture of soil and compost. If you have a pond, make sure it’s not overcrowded with other plants and algae because water chestnuts need a good amount of sunlight to grow.

Step 2: Plant the Water Chestnut Corms

Buy water chestnut corms from a reputable seed store or online. Soak the corms in water for two days before planting to help them sprout. Plant them in a well-prepared soil or compost bed at a depth of around two inches, with the pointy end facing up. The bed should be leveled and the soil should be kept moist. If you’re growing water chestnuts in a container, you can plant up to five or six corms per square foot.

Step 3: Maintain Proper Care

Water chestnuts need proper care to grow healthy and strong. Keep the soil or water clean to avoid pests and diseases. Change the water frequently or add an aquarium air pump to increase oxygenation. During the growing season, fertilize the plants every two weeks with aquatic plant fertilizer or liquid hydroponic nutrient. Keep the area weed-free and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Water chestnuts grow quickly and should be ready for harvest within three to four months.

Step 4: Harvest the Water Chestnuts

The right time to harvest your water chestnuts is when the plant’s foliage turns yellow or brown. Use a rake or long-handled fork to pull the entire plant gently from the soil or water. The corms will be attached to the roots. Shake off the excess soil or mud and let them dry in the sun for a few hours. Rinse them thoroughly and store them in a container with fresh water in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

The Bottom Line

With proper care and attention, you can grow your own water chestnuts and enjoy their fresh, crunchy flavor. Follow these simple steps to plant and maintain your water chestnuts, and you’ll have a bountiful harvest in no time. Plus, you’ll impress your friends and family with your newfound knowledge of growing this unique vegetable. Happy planting!