How to Plant Water Lilies: A StepbyStep Guide
How to Plant Water Lily?
To plant a water lily, begin by choosing the appropriate planting depth based on the size of the water lily.
Large water lilies should sit 75cm below the surface, medium water lilies 50cm below, and small water lilies 20cm below.
If the pond is too deep, bricks can be added to achieve the ideal depth.
Next, prepare a basket lined with hessian and filled with aquatic compost.
Place the water lily rhizome in the basket and cover with compost, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Add a layer of lime-free pea gravel to prevent the compost from floating to the surface.
Initially, the water lily should not be planted at its final depth but gradually lowered over time.
New leaves should appear around 10 days after planting.
Remove faded foliage in autumn to prevent algal blooms.
Hardy water lilies require minimal care, while tender water lilies should be lifted out of the pond before the first frosts.
It is important to follow specific growing instructions given by a specialist nursery.
Regular pruning and dividing every five years are also necessary.
Water lilies attract pollinating bees and provide shade and protection for fish.
They can be affected by aphids and water lily beetles, which can be controlled by submerging leaves in water or picking off the beetles and dropping them into soapy water.
Winterize water lilies by gradually reducing fertilizer and moving the pot to a cooler area.
Most water lilies need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to flower.
Loam or clay soil is best for filling the water lily’s pot, and different varieties of water lilies are suitable for different zones and temperatures.
During the growing season, water lilies should be fertilized with aquatic fertilizer tablets.
Key Points:
- Choose planting depth based on size of water lily (75cm, 50cm, 20cm below surface)
- Use bricks to adjust depth if pond is too deep
- Prepare basket with hessian and aquatic compost
- Place water lily rhizome in basket and cover with compost
- Add layer of pea gravel to prevent compost from floating
- Lower water lily gradually over time to final planting depth
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that water lilies are one of the oldest flowering plants in existence? Fossils dating back over 100 million years have been found, making them even older than some dinosaurs!
2. Water lilies are known for their ability to adapt to various water conditions, but did you know that some species can also survive in ideal conditions outside of water? The Victoria amazonica, for example, can thrive in a greenhouse or pond.
3. Water lilies are not only attractive but also have interesting survival mechanisms. To protect themselves from becoming a tasty meal for herbivorous animals, some water lily species developed thorns on their stems. These prickly defenses make it difficult for plant-eaters to graze on them.
4. Water lilies have an interesting relationship with pollinators. While they have beautiful flowers to attract insects for pollination, some species, such as the white water lily, produce heat in their flowers. This warmth helps to entice pollinators, as the heat increases the vapor pressure and releases an appealing fragrance.
5. In ancient cultures, water lilies held symbolic meanings. For instance, in ancient Egypt, they were regarded as a symbol of creation and rebirth. In Hinduism, the water lily, known as the “Lotus,” has deep spiritual significance and represents purity, enlightenment, and divine beauty.
Planting Depth For Different Types Of Waterlilies
When it comes to planting water lilies, one of the most important factors to consider is the appropriate planting depth. Different types of water lilies require specific planting depths to thrive and reach their full potential.
- Large water lilies should be planted 75cm below the surface of the water. This allows the lily pads to spread out and provide shade and protection for fish in the pond.
- Medium-sized water lilies should be planted 50cm below the surface, while small water lilies should be planted 20cm below.
It is crucial to avoid planting the water lilies too deep or too shallow. Planting them too deep can prevent proper growth and flowering, while planting them too shallow can make them susceptible to damage from wading birds or other animals. If your pond is too deep, you can add bricks or other suitable materials to achieve the ideal planting depth.
To plant water lilies, you can use aquatic baskets lined with hessian and filled with aquatic compost. Place the water lily rhizome (a horizontal stem) in the basket and cover it with compost, making sure that the crown is at soil level. Adding a layer of lime-free pea gravel on top of the compost can help prevent it from floating to the surface.
It’s important to note that water lilies should not be planted at their final depth initially. Instead, they should be gradually lowered over time as they develop and grow. This will allow them to adjust to their environment and establish a strong root system.
Timing And Technique For Planting Waterlilies
The best time to plant water lilies is between April and September when the water temperature is warmer and more conducive to growth. During this period, the plants will have ample time to establish themselves before winter arrives.
Before planting, it’s important to prepare your pond or water feature. Ensure that the water is still and receives full sun for at least six hours a day, as water lilies require these conditions to thrive and flower.
To plant a water lily, follow these steps:
- Prepare the aquatic basket by lining it with hessian or a similar material to prevent the compost from escaping.
- Fill the basket with aquatic compost, leaving enough space for the water lily rhizome.
- Place the water lily rhizome in the basket, ensuring that the crown is level with the soil and the growing tips are facing upwards.
- Cover the rhizome with more compost, making sure it is well-packed to provide stability.
- To prevent the compost from floating to the surface, add a layer of lime-free pea gravel on top.
- Gradually lower the water lily basket into the pond, starting at the initial planting depth and adjusting over time as the plant grows and develops.
- Water the newly planted water lily thoroughly to saturate the compost and help it settle.
New leaves should start to emerge within approximately 10 days after planting. If there is no sign of new growth, it could indicate that the water lily was planted too deeply.
Caring For Waterlilies Over Winter
In colder climates with harsh winters and freezing temperatures, special care is necessary for water lilies during the winter months. Hardy water lilies, which can survive freezing temperatures, require minimal care. However, tender water lilies, which are not cold-hardy, need to be lifted and kept frost-free over winter.
For hardy water lilies, it is recommended to trim back any dead foliage in autumn. This will prevent decaying material from causing algal blooms in the spring. Hardy water lilies can tolerate cold temperatures and can be left in the pond throughout the winter.
Tender water lilies, on the other hand, should be lifted out of the pond before the first frosts arrive. Carefully remove the water lily from its container and place it in a frost-free location, such as a greenhouse or garage. Ensure that the water lily remains moist but not submerged in water. Monitor the plant throughout the winter to prevent it from drying out or rotting.
During this period, it is important to follow specific instructions provided by a specialist nursery or supplier. They can offer guidance on the best methods for overwintering specific water lily varieties and ensure their survival until the next growing season.
Dividing And Propagating Waterlilies
Dividing water lilies is an essential part of their care and maintenance, as it helps rejuvenate the plant, promotes healthier growth, and prevents overcrowding in the pond. Dividing water lilies should be done every five years to ensure optimal growth and flowering.
To divide and propagate water lilies, follow these steps:
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In March, before the new growth appears, lift the water lily out of the pond. Carefully turn it out of its container to expose the rhizome.
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Use a sharp knife or gardening tool to divide the rhizome into sections. Each section should have at least two eyes (buds) and some indication of early growth.
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Repot the divided sections in separate containers, ensuring that the crown is level with the soil surface.
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Discard the tough, woody crown of the old plant, as it may hinder new growth.
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Carefully water the newly potted water lilies to settle the compost and encourage root development.
Propagation can also be carried out by cutting sections of the rhizome with at least two eyes and early growth and replanting them in separate containers or directly in the pond.
By dividing and propagating water lilies, you can expand your water garden collection and share these beautiful aquatic plants with others.
- Dividing water lilies rejuvenates the plant
- Propagation should be done every five years
- Lift water lily out of pond in March
- Divide rhizome with at least two eyes and early growth
- Repot divided sections in separate containers
- Discard old tough crown
- Water newly potted water lilies carefully
- Propagation can also be done by cutting rhizome sections with two eyes and early growth.
Common Pests And Diseases Of Waterlilies
Although water lilies are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, there are a few common issues that gardeners may encounter. Being aware of these potential problems and understanding how to manage them is crucial for maintaining healthy and vibrant water lilies.
Two pests that commonly affect water lilies are aphids and water lily beetles. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can distort young leaves and buds. Water lily beetles, on the other hand, feed on the foliage, causing unsightly holes.
To control aphids, submerge the affected leaves in water to dislodge the pests or use a strong stream of water to wash them away. For water lily beetles, pick them off the plants and drop them into a container of soapy water to eradicate them.
Preventing these pests can be achieved by maintaining good pond hygiene and avoiding overfeeding the plants. Regularly remove any fallen leaves or debris from the pond to minimize the risk of infestations.
Water lilies can also be susceptible to various fungal diseases, such as botrytis, which causes gray mold, or pythium, which leads to root rot. Providing proper water circulation and avoiding water stagnation can help prevent these diseases. Additionally, ensuring that the plants have adequate spacing and avoiding overcrowding can contribute to good air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal infections.
- Submerge the affected leaves in water to dislodge aphids
- Use a strong stream of water to wash away aphids
- Pick water lily beetles off the plants and drop them into soapy water
- Maintain good pond hygiene to prevent infestations
- Regularly remove fallen leaves or debris from the pond
- Provide proper water circulation to prevent fungal diseases
- Avoid water stagnation to prevent fungal diseases
- Ensure plants have adequate spacing and avoid overcrowding to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Varieties Of Waterlilies And Their Characteristics
Water lilies come in a wide range of varieties, each offering unique characteristics and beauty. Here are some notable water lily varieties and their distinctive features:
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Cape Blue Water Lily: This day-bloomer features light blue flowers and spreads 5-8 feet, making it an excellent choice for larger ponds.
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‘Colorado’ Water Lily: With pink-peach day-blooming flowers and burgundy leaves, this variety grows 3-5 feet across, adding a lovely touch of color to any pond.
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‘George L. Thomas’ Water Lily: Sporting deep pink blooms, this variety spreads 6-12 feet and creates a stunning focal point in any water garden.
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‘Luciana’ Water Lily: Known for its pink flowers and 3-4 feet wide spread, this variety adds a delicate elegance to ponds of all sizes.
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‘Mrs. George H. Pring’ Water Lily: This award-winning water lily boasts large white blooms with yellow stamens, creating a breathtaking display in any water garden.
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‘Shirley Byrne’ Water Lily: Vibrant pink cup-shaped blooms make this variety an eye-catching addition to ponds and water features.
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‘Afterglow’ Water Lily: With pink flowers adorned with shades of yellow and orange, this variety brings a warm and vibrant touch to water gardens.
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‘Arc en Ciel’ Water Lily: This unique variety stands out with foliage splashed with various colors and pale pink flowers. It spreads 4-5 feet wide, creating a captivating display.
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‘Carolina Sunset’ Water Lily: Producing 8-inch blooms in deep and light yellow during the day, this variety spreads 4-5 feet and adds a vibrant touch to any pond.
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‘Chromatella’ Water Lily: This variety bears small yellow flowers and attractive purple-mottled foliage. It is ideal for petite ponds and container gardens and tolerates light shade.
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European White Water Lily: With cup-shaped white flowers featuring red undersides, this variety spreads 5-6 feet and adds timeless elegance to water gardens.
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Fragrant Water Lily: As a fast-growing North American native, this variety offers highly fragrant white blooms and spreads 5-7 feet wide, creating a delightful sensory experience.
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‘Helvola’ Water Lily: This miniature variety showcases small yellow flowers and leaves streaked with purple. With a spread of 2-3 feet, it is perfect for smaller water gardens.
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‘Marliacea Carnea’ Water Lily: Known for its glowing white flowers with a subtle pink blush, this variety thrives in larger ponds and spreads 4-5 feet wide, creating a romantic ambiance.
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‘Peach Glow’ Water Lily: With large peach flowers that pale to white as they age, this variety continues to bloom into the fall and spreads 5-7 feet, providing a stunning display throughout the season.
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‘Texas Dawn’ Water Lily: This hybrid variety boasts large yellow flowers that face the sun. It spreads 3-5 feet, adding a warm and cheerful touch to any water feature.
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‘Hot Pink’ Water Lily: An award-winning tropical variety, ‘Hot Pink’ stands out with its large neon-pink flowers and mottled green foliage. With a spread of 4 feet, it is guaranteed to make a statement.
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‘Midnight’ Water Lily: Featuring lightly fragrant lavender blooms during the day, this variety spreads 4-6 feet and adds a touch of elegance and serenity to any pond.
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‘Rembrandt’ Water Lily: With rose-pink blooms that age to deep red, this variety spreads 4-5 feet, adding a vibrant and passionate touch to water gardens.
With such a vast array of water lily varieties available, there is sure to be one that suits your taste and complements your water feature. Whether you prefer delicate pastel hues or bold vibrant colors, planting water lilies will undoubtedly enhance the beauty and serenity of your pond or water garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can water lily grow in just water?
Yes, water lilies can indeed grow in just water. Even if you don’t have a pond, you can cultivate a dwarf water lily in a spacious container of water that has a depth of at least 30cm or 1ft. Hardy water lilies are especially well-suited for outdoor growth throughout the year. However, tropical water lilies require slightly more attention as they necessitate warm water and frost-free conditions during the winter season. Nonetheless, with the appropriate care, it is possible to cultivate water lilies in water without the need for soil or a traditional pond.
How do you plant lily seeds?
To plant lily seeds effectively, it is recommended to start the process three to four months ahead of the frost by planting the seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep in your soil. During the summer season, it is essential to maintain the soil’s moisture levels. As the following spring arrives, you can anticipate the emergence of bulblets with their initial true leaves, signs of successful growth and development.
What month is best to plant water lily?
The ideal month to plant water lilies would be in April or May, as this is when the weather starts to warm up and the water temperature rises, creating the optimal conditions for their growth. It is important to choose the right size of water lily for your pond, ensuring that it is placed at the correct depth. Large waterlilies should be submerged 75cm below the surface, medium waterlilies 50cm below, and small waterlilies 20cm below for their optimal growth and development.
How long do water lilies live?
Water lilies, with the proper care and environment, have the potential for remarkable longevity. These resilient perennials can thrive for extended periods, even when cultivated indoors. Numerous instances of water lilies exceeding 15 or 20 years, and sometimes thriving for decades, attest to their impressive lifespan.