How to Plant Water Lily

Water lilies are exquisite aquatic plants that add beauty and serenity to water gardens and ponds. Their delicate blooms and lily pads floating on the surface of the water make for stunning sights. If you're thinking of adding a water lily to your pond, here's how to plant it:

Choose Your Water Lilies

There are two types of water lilies - hardy and tropical. Hardy water lilies are suitable for cooler climates and can withstand winter temperatures. Tropical water lilies thrive in warmer climates and need to be grown in water temperatures above 70°F. Choose the type of water lily that suits your climate and pond size.

Prepare Your Pond

Ensure that your pond is deep enough to accommodate the water lily. Most water lilies require at least two feet of water depth for proper growth. Clear any debris and weeds from the area where you plan to plant the water lily. If you have fish or other aquatic animals in your pond, ensure that they don't damage the young water lily.

Plant Your Water Lily

Fill a large planting container with heavy clay soil, such as aquatic plant soil. Make a small mound in the center of the container, and place the water lily rhizome on top of it, with the roots spreading over the soil. Gently cover the roots with the remaining soil, leaving the crown of the rhizome exposed. Add a layer of small pebbles or gravel on top of the soil to prevent it from drifting away.

Place Your Water Lily in the Pond

Gently lower the planting container into the pond, ensuring that it's at the correct depth. Most water lilies require two to four feet of water depth. Ensure that the water lily is not planted too shallow or too deep. The planting container should be submerged in the water, with the lily pads and blooms floating on the surface.

Care for Your Water Lily

Water lilies require full sun exposure for at least six hours a day to bloom. They also need fertilizer for proper growth. Use aquatic plant fertilizer tablets as they release the nutrients gradually. Dispose of any dead or decaying plant material in the pond as they can affect water quality. It's also essential to prune the water lily occasionally to keep it from overcrowding the pond and blocking sunlight from other aquatic plants.

Conclusion

Planting water lilies is easy and can add a touch of beauty and tranquility to your pond. With proper care and attention, your water lily will thrive, bloom and provide shade for your aquatic habitat.