How to Divide Water Lily Plants

Water lilies are a stunning addition to any pond or water feature. However, as these aquatic plants grow, they can quickly outgrow their containers and start to overcrowd. Dividing water lily plants is essential to keep them healthy, thriving, and blooming. In this article, we will guide you through the process of dividing water lily plants, step by step.

When to Divide Water Lily Plants

The best time to divide water lily plants is in the spring, just as they begin to show signs of new growth. It is important to wait until the water in your pond or water feature has warmed to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit and the chance of frost has passed. This ensures that the newly divided plants have the best chance of surviving and thriving.

How to Prepare for Dividing Water Lily Plants

Before diving into dividing water lily plants, it's important to gather the right tools and equipment. You'll need a sharp knife or shears, a bucket, and a container or soil for repotting the new plants.

Start by filling the bucket with water and placing the container of soil nearby. Carefully remove the water lily plant from its container and gently rinse the roots with water to remove any debris or old soil. Then, place the plant in the bucket of water, ensuring the roots are fully submerged, and allow it to soak for several minutes.

How to Divide Water Lilies

Once the water lily plant has soaked adequately, it's time to divide it into smaller sections. Use a sharp knife or shears to carefully cut the rhizome into several sections, making sure that each section has healthy roots and a leaf or two. Be sure to make clean, straight cuts to avoid injuring the plant.

It's essential to remember that each section you cut will become a new plant, so aim to divide the water lily plant into the desired number of new plants. For example, if you only want to have two water lily plants, make sure you divide the original plant into two sections.

How to Repot Divided Water Lilies

After dividing the water lily plant, it's time to repot the newly divided plants. Fill the container or pond planting basket with aquatic soil, leaving enough space at the top for the plant. Place each divided section of the water lily plant on the soil, ensuring that the roots are fully covered, and then add a layer of small stones or gravel over the top of the soil. This helps to stabilize the plant and prevent the soil from washing away.

Once repotted, place the water lily plants back into the pond or water feature, ensuring they are fully submerged in water. It's important to avoid covering the plants with too much water or placing them in a location with strong currents, as this can damage the newly planted water lily plants.

Conclusion

Dividing water lilies is an easy and essential task to keep your water feature looking its best. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your water lily plants are healthy, thriving, and blooming all season long. Remember to divide your water lily plants in the spring when new growth is starting to appear, and always use sharp tools and clean cuts to avoid injuring the plant.