Water lilies can be grown indoors! It may sound surprising, but with the right variety and setup, you can enjoy the beauty of these aquatic plants right in the comfort of your own home.
One of the first things to consider when growing water lilies indoors is the variety you choose. There are many different types of water lilies, but not all of them are suitable for indoor cultivation. Look for smaller or dwarf varieties that are specifically bred for container gardening or small ponds. These varieties are more compact and have smaller leaves and flowers, making them better suited for growing indoors.
When it comes to setting up your indoor water lily garden, you don’t need a massive heated pond or a Victorian conservatory. In fact, you can fit these plants into relatively small spaces with ease. Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Container: Choose a wide, shallow container that is at least 12-18 inches in diameter. This will provide enough space for the water lily to spread its roots and grow comfortably. Make sure the container has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
2. Soil: Water lilies prefer a heavy clay soil mixed with some organic matter. You can use a commercial aquatic planting mix or create your own by combining clay soil, compost, and sand. Fill the container with the soil mixture, leaving some space at the top for water.
3. Water: Water lilies are aquatic plants, so they need to be grown in water. Fill the container with water, leaving a few inches of space between the soil surface and the water level. It’s important to use clean, non-chlorinated water, as chlorine can harm the plants. You can use rainwater, distilled water, or let tap water sit out for a day to allow the chlorine to dissipate.
4. Light: Water lilies require bright, indirect light to thrive. Place your indoor water lily garden near a window that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day. If you don’t have enough natural light, you can supplement with artificial grow lights to ensure your plants get the required light intensity.
5. Temperature: Water lilies prefer warm temperatures, so keep your indoor garden in a room where the temperature stays between 70-80°F (21-27°C). Avoid placing the plants near drafts or cold windows, as they can be sensitive to chilly temperatures.
6. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your indoor water lilies healthy. Remove any dead leaves or flowers to prevent them from decaying and fouling the water. Trim back any overgrown foliage to maintain a compact and tidy appearance. You may also need to fertilize your water lilies occasionally with a slow-release aquatic fertilizer to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.
7. Winter care: If you live in a colder climate, you may need to provide some winter care for your indoor water lilies. As the temperature drops, move the plants to a cooler room where they can go into a dormant state. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing during this time. If your water lilies have tubers or rhizomes, you can store them in a cool, dark place until spring and then reintroduce them to water.
Growing water lilies indoors can be a unique and rewarding experience. Not only do they add a touch of natural beauty to your home, but they also help create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. So, why not give it a try and bring a bit of the outdoors inside with these quirky and easy-to-grow houseplants?
