Waterlilies are among the most popular choices for water gardeners because of their spectacular flowers and ease of cultivation. Given proper care, they can thrive in small backyard ponds and even in container gardens. However, all too often, a few mistakes result in less-than-satisfactory performances. This guide will show you how to properly plant a waterlily and avoid common mistakes that prevent these beautiful aquatic plants from realizing their full potential.
Mistake 1: Setting Waterlilies in Small Garden Center Pots
Perhaps the biggest mistake most water gardeners make initially is not transplanting the waterlily from the small pot it came in upon purchase from the garden center. More often than not, these pots are too small to allow good plant growth. Waterlilies must have room to spread their roots. When left in the original, small pot, the plant can easily become root-bound and result in stunted growth with fewer flowers.
Solution: Repot your waterlily into a larger container using at least a 14-inch diameter pot to accommodate its growth.
Step-by-Step Waterlily Planting Guide
- Gather Your Supplies
Before you start repotting your waterlily, make sure you have the following items:
- Aquatic Lily Planter (at least 14 inches)
- Aquatic Plant Potting Media (designed specifically for pond plants)
- Fertilizer (use annual pond plant fertilizer or plant tabs)
- Large river rocks or pebbles (to prevent soil from floating out and protect the plant)
- Potting the Waterlily
Fill the bottom of the aquatic lily planter about a quarter of the way with aquatic planting media. If you're using an annual pond fertilizer, sprinkle it over this layer according to the packaging instructions.
- Repot the Waterlily
Gently remove the waterlily from its old container, making sure to keep as much of the soil around the roots as possible. Carefully place the plant in the new, larger container, filling in the sides with the aquatic planting media. Be sure not to bruise the sensitive roots.
If using plant tabs instead of annual fertilizer, press them into the soil around the edges of the pot and cover them with the planting media. These tabs should be replaced periodically throughout the growing season.
- Add River Rocks
Once the plant is securely potted, place large river rocks or pebbles on top of the soil. This helps prevent the soil from leeching into the water and protects the waterlily from curious fish like koi, which may dig around in the pot.
- Lower the Pot into the Pond
Carefully lower the newly potted waterlily into the pond, placing it at the correct depth. Check the waterlily’s plant tag for the recommended submersion depth, which usually places the crown of the plant just a few inches below the surface of the water.
Mistake 2: Setting the Waterlily at the Incorrect Depth
One common mistake is placing the waterlilies too deep or too shallow in the pond. This can cause the plant to struggle, resulting in poor flowering or even death.
Solution: Always check the plant’s tag for the recommended depth and adjust accordingly. Most waterlilies should have their crown (where the roots meet the stems) submerged about 6 to 18 inches beneath the water’s surface, depending on the variety.
Conclusion
Planting a waterlily can be a simple process that yields beautiful, show-stopping results in your pond or container garden. Repotting your waterlily into a larger container, using the right potting media and fertilizer, and setting it at the proper depth will ensure prolific blooms and lush foliage throughout the season. Avoid these common mistakes, and your waterlilies will thrive, transforming your water garden into a stunning display of nature’s beauty.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your waterlily blooms all season long, whether in a pond or container, while also contributing to the health and aesthetic of your aquatic space.
