Choosing the Right Big Pot for Your Water Lily

Water lilies are a classic pond plant known for their beautiful blooms. To get the most out of your water lily, proper planting is key. One of the most important factors is choosing the right pot size. Bigger pots allow the water lily to grow larger and produce more flowers. This article will guide you in selecting the ideal big pot for your water lily.

Why Water Lilies Need Big Pots

Water lilies have large root systems that need ample room to expand. Their roots also anchor them in the pond soil. When planted in pots that are too small, water lily roots become overcrowded or constrained. This restricts their growth and causes problems like:

• Smaller plant size
• Fewer, smaller blooms
• Slow growth
• Declining health

Bigger pots provide the roots with enough space to grow properly. A roomy container allows the water lily to reach maturity faster. Mature plants bloom more prolifically with larger flower sizes.

Choosing the Right Big Pot Size

As a general rule, the pot diameter should be 2 to 3 times the diameter of the water lily tuber Here are some common pot sizes based on tuber diameter

• 2-3 inch tubers – 12 inch pot
• 3-4 inch tubers – 14-16 inch pot
• 4-6 inch tubers – 16-18 inch pots
• 6-8 inch tubers – 18-24 inch pots

For the most blooms, repot the water lily every 2-3 years as the tuber outgrows the container. Move it to a bigger pot, usually 2 inches larger.

Keep in mind most water lily varieties max out at 18-24 inch diameter pots. Giant water lilies like the Pygmaea and Victoria cultivars may need up to 48 inch pots.

Pot Features to Look For

When shopping for a big pot, consider these ideal features:

• Wide, shallow shape – Water lilies grow horizontally so wide, shallow pots work better than narrow, deep ones.

• Drainage holes – Holes allow pond water to flow through easily. They prevent stagnant, poor quality water from collecting in the pot.

• Durability – Look for sturdy plastic, concrete or glazed ceramic pots. Avoid flimsy containers prone to cracking or breaking.

• Handles – Handles make repositioning the pot much easier, especially for large containers.

• Black or neutral colors – Dark or natural pot shades help the container blend into the pond background. Bright colors can be unsightly.

Recommended Big Pot Options

Here are some excellent big pot choices for water lilies:

• Ceramic or Concrete Pots: High quality ceramic and concrete pots last for years. They come in simple round shapes ideal for water lilies. Sizes range from 10 inches up to 30 inches in diameter.

• Plastic Nursery Pots: Black plastic nursery pots are affordable and come in bigger sizes like 14, 18 or 24 inches. Drainage slits allow water circulation.

• Rubbermaid Troughs: For giant water lilies, Rubbermaid trough planters provide huge growing capacity. The rectangular troughs come in sizes up to 34 x 18 inches.

• Pond Water Lily Pots: Specialty water lily pots like the Botanica 16 inch Water Lily Container are designed specifically for pond use.

Positioning the Pot in the Pond

Proper pot placement helps the water lily flourish:

• Place in a sunny spot, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

• Position at a depth of 12-36 inches. Adjust as needed through the seasons.

• Allow ample open space around the pot for future growth.

• Angle the pot to maximize sunlight exposure to the top growth.

• Keep 1-2 feet between pots so multiple water lilies don’t overcrowd each other.

Filling the Pot with Soil

Use only pond soil or aquatic planting media in the pot, never regular garden soil. Some good choices are:

• Clay loam soil mixed with compost or organic matter

• Packaged aquatic plant potting media

• Special water lily soil mixes

Fill the pot about 2/3 full, leaving room at the top for mulch. Place the tuber horizontally on the soil and cover with a 1-2 inch mulch layer. This protects the tuber and helps prevent soil from washing out.

Fertilizing for Best Growth

Water lilies are heavy feeders. Fertilize regularly during the growing season for vigorous plants and maximum blooms. Use water lily fertilizer or aquatic plant foods applied as directed.

Place slow release fertilizer tablets under the mulch layer for continuous nourishment. Also replenish the potting soil annually by digging it out and replacing at least the top third with fresh soil.

Key Takeaways

• Bigger pots allow water lily roots ample room to expand for better growth.

• Choose a pot at least 2-3 times wider than the tuber diameter.

• Look for wide, durable pots with drainage holes and handles.

• Position in a sunny area at the right depth, and space multiple pots 1-2 feet apart.

• Use only aquatic potting media designed for ponds.

• Fertilize regularly for thriving water lilies with abundant blooms.

With the right big pot, your water lily will quickly establish and reward you with its graceful beauty for years to come.