How to Plant Water Lilies in a Pot

Water lilies are one of the most beautiful aquatic plants that add grace and charm to your garden. Growing them in a pot is an excellent way to enjoy their beauty and fragrance, even if you don’t have a natural pond or water garden. Here are some simple steps to follow to plant water lilies in a pot.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot

The first thing you need to do is choose a pot that is suitable for planting water lilies. It should be at least 16 inches or more in diameter and have a depth of 10 to 14 inches. This will provide enough space for the plant to grow, and the pot should be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the plant when it is filled with water.

Step 2: Add Soil to the Pot

Next, you need to add a good quality aquatic plant soil to the pot. It is essential to use soil that is specifically designed for aquatic plants, as it will provide the right nutrients and support for the growth of the lilies. Fill the pot halfway with soil, making sure to spread it evenly around the sides.

Step 3: Place the Water Lily in the Pot

Now you need to gently place the water lily in the soil, with the rhizome (root) facing downwards. The rhizome should be placed at an angle of 45 degrees, with the crown (where the leaves sprout) just above the soil level. Be sure to handle the plant carefully and avoid crushing the roots or the leaves.

Step 4: Cover the Rhizome with Soil

Carefully cover the rhizome with the remaining soil, making sure that it is evenly spread around the roots. Be gentle when adding soil so as not to damage the plant. The crown of the plant should be slightly above the soil level.

Step 5: Add Gravel to the Top of the Soil

Next, add 1 to 2 inches of gravel on top of the soil around the crown of the plant. This will help to anchor the plant and also prevent the soil from being disturbed by the water movement in the pot. Be careful when adding gravel to avoid damaging the leaves or the rhizome.

Step 6: Fill the Pot with Water

Fill the pot with water until it covers the roots and the crown of the plant. The water should be around 3 inches above the soil level. Tap water is fine to use, but if possible, let it sit for a day or two to remove any chlorine or other chemicals that may be harmful to the plant.

Step 7: Add Fertilizer

To ensure the growth and health of the water lilies, you should add aquatic plant fertilizer to the pot. Use a slow-releasing fertilizer that is specifically designed for water lilies, as this will provide the right nutrients and support for the plant. Follow the instructions on the package for the amount of fertilizer to add to the pot.

Step 8: Place the Pot in a Sunny Spot

Water lilies need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so it is essential to place the pot in a sunny spot. Ideally, it should get at least 6 hours of sunlight every day. If you live in a hot climate where the temperature can rise above 90°F, it’s a good idea to place the pot in partial shade to prevent the water from getting too hot.

Step 9: Maintenance

Now that you have planted your water lilies in a pot, it's time to maintain them. Keep the water level constant by adding water as needed. Ensure that the water remains clear by removing any leaves or debris that may float on the top of the water. If the leaves start to turn yellow or brown, remove them promptly to prevent the build-up of rotting plant matter that can harm the plant.

Conclusion:

Planting water lilies in a pot is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy these beautiful aquatic plants in your garden. Follow these simple steps to plant and maintain your water lilies, and you are sure to have a beautiful addition to your garden that will provide beauty and fragrance for years to come.