When and how to plant water lilies

Water lily planting time

Water lilies are suitable for planting in the spring from April to June, because the temperature is neither too cold nor too hot at this time, which is very conducive to the growth of water lilies. Do not plant them in hot or cold seasons, as the germination rate will be very low.

How to plant water lilies

1. Planting by division

The method of division propagation and cultivation is the main means of planting water lilies. March to April before germination in early spring is the best time for division. If the temperature is too low, the division should be postponed to May. Cut healthy and full rhizomes into 8-10 cm lengths with at least one bud point, and bury them in the soil with the top bud facing upwards. Do not water too deeply and pay attention to water cleanliness.

2. Seeding and planting

Water lilies can be planted and cultivated by sowing. Collect the plump and healthy seeds from the fruits, store them in water until sowing in March or April. The planting soil can be fertile clay loam. The planting temperature should be controlled between 25-30℃ to keep warm and moist. It will germinate in half a month and can be transferred to water culture for care after it blooms in the second year.

3. Cutting planting

In addition to division and sowing, the cutting method can also be used. In spring, select thick rhizomes from the water lily plant as cuttings, leaving 2-3 buds on the rhizomes to help survival and growth. The length of the cuttings can be controlled at 7-9 cm. After disinfection and cleaning, insert them into soft and moist base soil to expose the buds.

Things to note when planting water lilies

Regardless of the planting method, the water level must be controlled to change with the different growth stages of the water lily, otherwise it will have a great negative impact on flowering. The water temperature should be the same as the room temperature. In winter, the water surface freezes, and the top buds of the water lilies need to be kept under the ice to safely overwinter. In addition, do not apply too much fertilizer to avoid the growth of microorganisms. During the peak growth period, apply diluted fertilizer once every half a month.