Planting Water Lilies

Where to plant the water lily?

Water lilies are aquatic plants that should be planted in spring in a pond at least 50 cm deep to provide a stable environment and promote optimal growth. The ideal planting depth is between 60 and 85 cm.

Water lilies need six to eight hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Avoid overly shaded areas, as this may limit their ability to flower.

The water pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. An unsuitable pH can lead to growth problems and make water lilies more susceptible to diseases and pests. It is recommended to regularly test the water pH and make necessary adjustments to maintain optimal conditions.

Good to know: The floating leaves of water lilies also play an important role by providing shade for fish and reducing algae growth by limiting the amount of light that penetrates the water.

To learn more about growing water lilies, read Nymphea, water lily: planting and care.

Nymphaea ‘Starbright’

When to plant water lilies?

The best time to plant water lilies is in spring, between April and June, when temperatures begin to warm and the risk of frost has passed. Planting during this period allows water lilies to benefit from a full growing season, giving them ample time to root and establish themselves before winter.

Which substrate is suitable for water lilies?

Planting in a pond

In a natural pond with a muddy bottom, water lilies can be planted directly into the mud. The mud provides stable anchorage and a constant source of nutrients for the water lilies’ roots. It is rich in organic matter, which promotes the growth of aquatic plants. However, it is essential to ensure that the mud is not too compact to allow proper water and oxygen circulation around the roots.

Planting in pots or baskets

For cultivation in submerged pots or baskets, a specific substrate should be used to ensure the health and flowering of water lilies. Use good garden soil, even if heavy, mixed with coarse sand. The sand helps prevent the substrate from becoming too compact. Avoid using standard potting compost, as it often contains lightweight organic matter that floats and encourages algae growth.

To prevent algae growth in water lily ponds, ensure that the lilies sufficiently cover the water’s surface to provide shade. Balance nutrients by using fertilisers sparingly and avoid overfeeding fish. Finally, maintain good water circulation with pumps or aerators and introduce competing aquatic plants.

Planting a water lily in a perforated basket, which will then be submerged in water.

How to plant water lilies?

Preparing the Rhizomes

Upon receipt, inspect them to ensure they are in good condition, with no signs of rot or disease. Carefully trim any damaged or dead parts with a clean, sharp knife. If you cannot plant the rhizomes immediately, store them in a cool, dark place, wrapped in a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight to prevent dehydration.

Planting in Mud or Baskets

To plant water lilies in a muddy pond, you can simply press the rhizomes directly into the mud. Weigh them down with a stone to keep them in place until they are well-rooted.

If you choose to grow them in pots or baskets, follow these steps:

• Choosing the container: Use a fine-mesh pot or basket at least 40 cm in diameter to allow for proper root growth.
• Preparing the substrate: Fill the container with heavy garden soil mixed with coarse sand.
• Planting the rhizome: Plant the rhizome vertically in the substrate, ensuring the crown is just below the surface. The growing buds should point upwards.
• Weighting the substrate: Add a layer of gravel or small stones on top of the substrate to weigh it down and prevent it from being washed away by water movement.
• Watering: Water generously to settle the substrate around the rhizome.

Spacing the Plants

Water lilies need space to grow. A spacing of at least 1.5 metres between plants is recommended. This allows the floating leaves to spread and the flowers to bloom fully without obstruction.

Gradual Immersion

Once the rhizomes are planted and the pots or baskets prepared, it is essential to gradually immerse the water lilies in the pond. This technique helps the plants adapt to changes in pressure and temperature. Follow these steps for gradual immersion:

• Initial positioning: Place the pot or basket at a shallow depth, so the top of the rhizome is just below the water’s surface.
• Gradual immersion: Over a period of a few days to a week, gradually move the pot or basket to deeper areas of the pond until reaching the recommended final depth of 60 to 85 cm.
• Observation: During this period, monitor the plants for signs of stress or poor adaptation and adjust the depth if necessary.

Note: Each year, at the start of the growing season, you can apply a special aquatic plant fertiliser.

Nymphaea ‘Newton’