How to Plant Water Lilies

Water lilies are exquisite aquatic plants that can add beauty and serenity to any water feature in your garden. Whether you have a pond, lake, or a large container, planting water lilies is relatively easy. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps you need to follow to successfully plant your water lilies.

Choosing a Container

The container you use to plant your water lilies should be wide and shallow. You can use anything from a plastic tub or planter to a purpose-made aquatic basket. These baskets have large holes to allow water to drain freely while retaining soil and encapsulating the rhizomes of the water lilies.

In addition, you need to make sure that the container is big enough to accommodate the size of the plant. Keep in mind that water lilies come in different sizes, so make sure you choose a container that suits the variety you have.

Preparing the Soil

The soil in which you plant your water lilies shouldn't have any nutrients, as this can lead to excessive growth of algae. Instead, use a nutrient-free soil such as clay loam or topsoil mix. The soil should be 6 to 12 inches deep, depending on the size of the plant.

Before you start planting, fill the container with water up to 3 inches from the top. This is to ensure that the soil is well-saturated before planting the water lily.

Planting the Water Lily

To plant the water lily, gently place it in the soil with the rhizome pointing downwards. If the plant has leaves, make sure the leaves are facing upwards. Gently cover the roots with soil, leaving the crown exposed. Once planted, gently press the soil to ensure that the plant is secure in the soil.

After planting, place the container in a sunny position. Water lilies require at least 5 to 6 hours of sunlight to thrive. If your water feature doesn't receive enough sun, you can supplement with artificial lighting.

Caring for Water Lilies

To ensure that your water lilies thrive, you need to regularly fertilize them. Water lilies require frequent fertilization throughout the growing season to encourage blooming and to strengthen the plant. Use a slow-release fertilizer or one that is specially formulated for water lilies.

In addition, you need to maintain a consistent water level in your water feature. Water lilies require water that is consistently at least 6 inches deep, and you should check the water level regularly. Too little water can cause the plant to dry out, while too much water can lead to the development of algae.

Final Thoughts

Planting water lilies isn't as difficult as you may think. With the right container, soil, sunlight, and fertilization, you can enjoy the beauty of these aquatic plants in your own backyard. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and you'll soon have a stunning water feature that will be the envy of your neighborhood!