If you’re looking to grow water lilies in a container or pond, it’s important to follow the proper planting process. First, select a small container (12-20 inches in diameter and 8-10 inches deep) that will eventually be placed in your pond or tub. Cover the drainage hole with burlap or mesh to keep soil from escaping. Because the plant will grow to the size of the container, choose a smaller pot if working with a smaller tub.
Fill the pot two-thirds of the way with garden or aquatic gardening soil, avoiding lightweight potting mixes with perlite, vermiculite, or peat. The soil should be heavy enough for stability but light enough for the root system to escape. Place the rhizome against the pot’s side, with the growing tip pointing upward at a 45-degree angle towards the surface. Cover the root system with soil and add small rocks or gravel to stabilize the plant.
When lowering the potted plant into the pond or tub, set it at an angle and let it gradually acclimate to the water temperature. Position the pot’s base 12-16 inches deep, allowing the leaves to float on the surface. If the plant already has leaves, start by placing the container so that they are just beneath the water’s surface (around 6-8 inches deep). Within a few days, the leaves should reach the surface, and the plant can be lowered to its final depth of 12-16 inches.
