How to Plant Water Lily Plants

Water lilies are popular aquatic plants, known for their beautiful blooms and attractive foliage. These plants are relatively easy to grow, and they add color and interest to any water garden. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to plant water lily plants.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting water lilies is to choose the right location. These plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so choose a spot in your water garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid planting them in areas where they will be shaded by trees or other plants.

Prepare the Pot

Once you have chosen the right location, you need to prepare the pot. Water lilies grow best in containers that are 10-12 inches deep and at least 14-16 inches in diameter. Use a large plastic or clay pot, and make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom. You can line the pot with burlap or a water-permeable fabric to prevent the soil from spilling out.

Add Soil and Fertilizer

Fill the pot with a good-quality aquatic planting mix, or you can use a combination of soil and sand. Add a slow-release fertilizer tablet to the soil, following the package instructions. Water lilies are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Plant the Water Lily

Now it's time to plant the water lily. Start by removing any dead or yellow leaves and trimming the roots. Place the plant in the pot and carefully spread out the roots. Add more soil until the crown of the plant is covered, but leave the leaves exposed. Gently press down the soil around the roots to secure the plant in place.

Add Water

After you have planted the water lily, fill the pot with water until it's about 2-3 inches below the rim. The water should cover the roots, but not the leaves. Place the pot in the water garden and add more water until the water level is about 1 inch below the rim.

Care for the Water Lily

Water lilies require minimal care, but they do need regular maintenance to keep them healthy and blooming. Remove any dead or yellow leaves, and trim back the foliage as needed. Check the water level regularly and add more water as needed. Use a pond net to remove any debris or fallen leaves that can accumulate on the surface of the water. Fertilize the plant every month during the growing season, following the package instructions.

Conclusion

Water lilies are a beautiful addition to any water garden, and they are relatively easy to grow. By following these simple steps on how to plant water lily plants, you can enjoy the beauty of these aquatic plants in your own backyard.