These are, of course, impressive plants to have in or around a pond, providing bright flowers and lush foliage. Water lily seeds are simple to cultivate, yet several novice gardeners are unaware of how to grow water lily in pond. Common mistakes can cause plants to be unhealthy and flowering to be scarce. There are some common mistakes when learning how to grow water lily plants.

●       Selecting the Wrong Type

Water lilies are not right for every pond. There are hardy varieties and tropical varieties, and choosing the wrong type for your climate will leave you with a plant that does not thrive. Hardy water lilies thrive in cooler climates, whereas tropical need warm temps year-round.

●       Planting Too Deep or Too Shallow

How deep should you plant water lilies? Plant them too deep, and they may not bloom. They may be too shallow, and they may lack stability and not be able to be established properly. For best results, plant the crown of the plant 6 to 18 inches below the water surface.

●       Overcrowding the Pond

Water lilies like space to scatter their leaves properly. When transplanted together, it affects their exposure to sunlight and food intake, with weak plants growing and fewer blooming flowers in return. Have enough space available for each plant to have its expansion.

●       Using the Wrong Soil

Using regular garden soil can be a significant error. Organic material within it breaks down in water, making the water hazy and imbalanced nutrient levels. For pond plants, use heavy clay or aquarium planting mix.

●       Lack of Sunlight

Water lilies need at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom effectively. The poor flowering may be a consequence of giving them a place with shaded areas or overshadowed trees. An ideal sunny location for them in the pond will give them its fullest potential for growth.

●       Failure to Fertilize

Like other plants, water lilies require nutrition. Many amateur keepers neglect the fertilizing procedure, which leads to poorly developed flowers and poor growth. Put slow-release tablets of aquatic fertilizer in the soil near the roots every 4 to 6 weeks of the growing season.

●       Allowing Excessive Algae Growth

Algae may compete with the water lily for nutrients, as well as shade sunlight. Algae bloom may be brought about by feeding too much on fish, water circulation, or too much nutrition. Balancing the pond is maintained through appropriate filtration, not overfeeding fish, and introducing aquatic plants will prevent algae blooms.

●       Not Pruning Dead Leaves and Blooms

Dead leaves and flowers should often be removed in the steps on how to grow waterlily in the pond to prevent rot and deterioration of water quality. Accumulated decayed material will encourage bacterial growth so that proper plant health will be poor. Dead foliage should be trimmed back for new growth to appear.

●       Failure to Provide Winter Care

Hardy water lilies can survive winter if prepared correctly, but tropical varieties must be taken indoors or replaced every year. Failure to winterize a pond or remove tropical lilies may lead to plant loss.

Landon 7803: A Proven Fertilizer for Exceptional Plant Growth

This granular formula, utilizing 'binary’ technology has been in use for over twenty-five years. Developed by world renown hybridizer, Kenneth Landon, this product has produced some of the most beautiful plants ever grown. After some 20 years, Ken agreed to release this formula for general use and we were asked to make it market ready and to introduce it to the trade. Take this products for plant growth.

LANDON 7803 is a combination of both organic and inorganic ingredients that work in conjunction with one another to create spectacular results. It is a very ‘hot’ formula that requires very strict adherence to the directions for use. These instructions can be seen on this site. In using this formula we suggest that you combine the appropriate amount of fertilizer with soil and fill your container three quarters full. Add the tuber and cover with(unfertilized) soil. Cover with gravel and place in your pond.

Typically, this fertilization method should be sufficient for 60 to 90 days. If late season fertilization is needed, use tablets per manufacturers instructions. This is the only fertilizer used in the International Waterlily Certified Collection and Repository located in San Angelo, Texas, where Ken is the Horticulturist.

After trials at Longwood Botanical Gardens in Pennsylvania it is now the fertilizer of choice for growing show stopping specimens.

Conclusion

It is only through attention to detail and proper care that you can successfully grow water lilies in your pond. Avoid these common mistakes and enjoy the beautiful blooms and thriving aquatic environment. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, your water lilies will flourish year after year by following the best practices on how to grow water lily in pond.