How to Plant Water Lilies in Pots

If you want to add a touch of beauty to your outdoor pond or water feature, water lilies are a good choice. These aquatic plants are low-maintenance and easy to grow in pots. Planting them in containers allows you to move them around as needed and control their size. In this article, we'll discuss how to plant water lilies in pots.

Choosing a Container

When selecting a container for your water lilies, choose a pot that's at least 12 inches wide and 8 inches deep. If you're planting multiple water lilies, consider using a larger container. Make sure the pot has drainage holes so that excess water can drain out. You can also use a plastic container or a traditional clay pot, but remember to adjust the size according to the number of plants you want to grow.

Choosing a Location

Water lilies require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Ideally, choose a location for your pots that are sheltered from strong winds that can damage the delicate leaves of the plant. If you're keeping the pots outdoors, avoid placing them in areas where they might be exposed to pests or predators such as raccoons.

Preparing the Pot

Before planting your water lilies, prepare the pot by filling it with aquatic planting soil. This type of soil is specially designed to retain moisture and provide the necessary nutrients for the plants. Make sure the soil is damp but not soggy. You can also add a layer of gravel or sand at the bottom to improve drainage.

Planting the Water Lilies

When planting water lilies in pots, start by selecting healthy plants from a reputable nursery or online store. Carefully remove the plant from its original pot and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Gently spread out the roots and place the plant in the center of the pot, making sure that the crown of the plant sits just above the soil level. Fill the pot with soil, gently pressing down around the plant to secure it.

Caring for Water Lilies in Pots

Water lilies require regular maintenance to thrive, but it's a lot easier when they're in pots. Here are some tips for caring for your water lilies in containers:

Water your plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not saturated.

Fertilize your plants every 3-4 weeks using a slow-release fertilizer.

Trim off any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.

Clean out the pot occasionally to remove any debris or dead leaves that may have accumulated.

Overwinter your plants by moving them indoors to a cool, dark location where the temperature stays between 50-60°F. Stop fertilizing and reduce watering during this time.

With a little care and attention, your water lilies will thrive in their new containers, adding a beautiful touch to your pond or water feature!