How to Plant a Dwarf Water Lily

Are you looking to add some beauty and tranquility to your backyard pond? Consider planting a dwarf water lily! These stunning aquatic plants bring color and life to your water feature while also providing natural shade and oxygenation for fish and other wildlife. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for a dwarf water lily.

Getting Started: Choosing the Right Spot

Before you start planting your water lily, it’s important to choose the right location for it. Dwarf water lilies typically do best in ponds that get at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They also need at least six inches of water depth to thrive. Make sure you have enough space in your pond to accommodate the mature size of your water lily, typically around two to three feet in diameter. Test the pH level of your pond water and aim for a range of 6.5-7.5. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to start planting!

Planting Your Dwarf Water Lily

Start by selecting a healthy water lily tuber from a reputable supplier or garden center. Carefully rinse the tuber in cool water to remove any soil or debris. Gently remove any brown or rotting parts of the tuber with a sharp knife. Fill a planting basket about two-thirds full with aquatic planting media, such as clay or loam soil mixed with sand. Add a handful of fertilizer pellets or water lily spikes to the center of the media, then place the water lily tuber on top, being careful not to damage the growing tip.

Fill the basket with more aquatic planting media until the water lily tuber is covered and the basket is full. Add a thin layer of small rocks to the top of the media to help anchor the basket and prevent soil loss. Gently place the basket in the desired location in your pond, making sure the water lily is submerged in at least six inches of water. If you have fish, you may want to add a net to the surface of the water to prevent them from disturbing the newly-planted water lily.

Caring for Your Dwarf Water Lily

Once your water lily is planted, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure it thrives. Make sure to keep at least six inches of water over the top of your water lily basket at all times, as the plant needs consistent moisture to grow. Monitor the pH level of your pond water regularly, and adjust as needed to keep it in the optimal range. If you notice yellow or dying leaves on your water lily, carefully remove them at the base of the stem to keep the plant healthy.

During the growing season, fertilize your water lily every two to four weeks with aquatic fertilizer pellets or spikes. Trim back any overgrown leaves or flowers to promote healthy growth. And if your water lily seems to be struggling, try moving it to a sunnier or shadier spot in your pond to see if it improves.

In Conclusion

Planting a dwarf water lily is a beautiful addition to any backyard pond or water feature. With the right location, planting materials, and care, your water lily will thrive and bring color and life to your outdoor space. Happy planting!