The most gorgeous and colorful plants in the water garden, water lilies, will provide months of enjoyment during the summer. It’s also worth remembering that they play a crucial role in the pond’s ecosystem by shading the pond surface throughout the summer. Other Deepwater pond plants will also offer color and interest to other deep pond sections. Water lilies bloom in the late spring thru summer and into the fall. Providing months of green coverage and a stunning spectacle of blooms. Here, you will read about red pond lilies and how you can grow them according to the pond size.
Water lilies according to the pond size
For tiny ponds, water lilies
Pygmy water lilies are little or miniature water lilies. Small ponds and water features like half barrels are appropriate for these types. The delicate blossoms and tiny leaves of the pygmy water lily make it ideal for shallower water of about 10-12 inches. The Pygmy Helvola is a popular little lily, while the Pygmea Red is known for its crimson blossom.
Water lilies for ponds of moderate size
For an average-sized garden pond, you can purchase a lily from our medium water lily selection. Depending on the variety, they may have a spread of 3-4 feet and have a planting depth of 12 to 36 inches. These are one of the top listed oxygenating plants you get from Pond Plants of America at the most affordable cost.
Larger ponds will benefit from water lilies
A Nymphaea Alba or Attraction will provide a cost-effective solution when a significant amount of coverage is required, with one plant producing a large pad of leaves and several blooms. Lilies come in various colors and styles to meet everyone’s preferences.
What kind of environment do water lilies prefer?
Warm, sunny weather is ideal for water lilies. They should be planted at a suitable depth for the variety, generally between 12 – 36 and away from fast-flowing water or fountain splashing.
During the summer, we recommend removing any dead foliage or blossoms. This prevents them from breaking down in the water, which can lead to increased nutrient levels, algae blooms, and possibly poor water quality, affecting the pond’s residents. When budding/blooming feed the lily fertilizer at least once a month.
Water lily care in the winter
Ensure your water lily is at the proper depth to protect it from the harshest winter weather. In the autumn, cut back dead foliage to just above the lily crown. Trimming back pond plants can help decrease toxin build-up from rotting vegetation, which may not be visible until the water heats up in the spring.
How to Grow Water Lilies at your pond?
- When planting red pond lilies, use a large basket lined with a fibrous material
- Fill the rest of the basket with soil, making sure the “eyes” are visible. Place the water lily in the basket with the “crown” looking upwards.
- To finish, add some gravel to the top to keep the dirt in place and dissuade fish from disturbing the lily.
- Don’t simply toss the plant into the water. You’ll need to soak the basket first and then drop it slowly.
- Smaller, immature lilies may benefit from being placed in shallower water first and then gradually moving deeper over several months.