Water lilies can indeed grow in just water, even if you don’t have a pond. In fact, you can grow a dwarf water lily in a large container of water that is at least 30cm or 1ft deep. This opens up opportunities for those who may not have the space or resources to create a full-fledged pond but still want to enjoy the beauty of water lilies.
When it comes to growing water lilies in containers, there are a few important factors to consider. First and foremost, you need to choose the right type of water lily. Hardy water lilies are generally the best choice for growing outdoors all year round, as they can withstand colder temperatures and even frost. On the other hand, tropical water lilies can be a bit trickier to grow in containers, as they require warm water and frost-free conditions in winter.
Next, it’s important to select a suitable container for your water lily. The container should be large enough to accommodate the plant and provide ample space for root growth. A container that is at least 30cm or 1ft deep is recommended to ensure the roots have enough room to spread out.
Once you have your container ready, fill it with water. Tap water is generally acceptable for most water lilies, but if you have access to rainwater or pond water, that can be even better. It’s important to note that water lilies prefer still water, so avoid using containers with a lot of water movement or circulation.
When it comes to planting the water lily, you’ll want to use a suitable aquatic planting medium. This can be a mix of loam or clay soil and aquatic compost. Avoid using regular garden soil, as it can be too heavy and may not provide the right nutrients for the water lily.
Gently place the water lily tuber or rhizome into the planting medium, making sure the growing tip is facing upwards. Cover the tuber with a layer of the planting medium, leaving the growing tip exposed. You can also add a layer of gravel on top to help prevent the soil from becoming too muddy.
Now, it’s time to place your container in a suitable location. Water lilies require full sun to thrive, so choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in a hot climate, you may want to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent the water from overheating.
As with any plant, water lilies require regular care and maintenance. Make sure to keep the water level in the container topped up, as it can evaporate over time. If you notice any algae growth, you can add a small fountain or water feature to help improve water circulation and prevent stagnant conditions.
During the growing season, water lilies may need regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. You can use specific aquatic plant fertilizers or slow-release pond plant spikes. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the correct dosage and application method.
In terms of winter care, hardy water lilies can tolerate colder temperatures and may even survive freezing conditions. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s a good idea to move the container to a frost-free location or provide some insulation to protect the water lily.
While water lilies are traditionally associated with ponds, it is possible to grow them in containers of water. Whether you opt for a hardy or tropical variety, with the right care and conditions, you can enjoy the beauty of water lilies even without a pond. So go ahead and create your own water garden oasis with a container of water and a stunning water lily!
