How to Repot a Water Lily: A Step-by-Step Guide

Water lilies are beautiful aquatic plants that add color and life to any pond or water feature. However, as they grow and spread, they may outgrow their container and require repotting. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to repot a water lily:

1. Choose the Right Time

The best time to repot a water lily is during its dormant period in late fall or early spring when it is not actively growing. This will minimize stress on the plant.

To check if your water lily is ready for repotting, gently lift it from the water and inspect its roots. If the roots have outgrown the container or are circling around the pot, it's time to repot.

2. Prepare the New Container

Choose a new container that is slightly larger than the current one and has no drainage holes. Fill it with a mix of equal parts gravel and aquatic soil. Make a small mound in the center to support the water lily.

A water lily in a container

3. Gently Remove the Water Lily from its Current Container

First, remove any dead or yellow leaves from the plant. Then, using your hands or a sharp knife, carefully loosen the plant from the container. Be gentle and avoid damaging the roots.

If the roots are tightly packed, you may need to use a garden hose or a stream of water to help loosen them. Be patient and take your time.

4. Trim the Roots and Rhizome

Using sharp scissors or a knife, trim any dead or damaged roots. Cut back any healthy roots by about one-third of their length to promote new growth.

Trim the rhizome, which is the thick stem that supports the leaves and flowers, so that it fits comfortably on top of the mound in the new container.

Water lily roots

5. Place the Water Lily in the New Container

Place the trimmed rhizome on top of the mound in the new container. Spread the roots evenly around the mound, taking care not to damage them. Add more soil mixture around the roots until the plant is firmly anchored in place.

Gently press down on the soil to eliminate any air pockets and add more water to cover the crown of the plant.

6. Return the Water Lily to the Pond

Once the water lily is securely planted in its new container, return it to the pond or water feature. Gradually lower the container into the water until it is at the same depth as before.

Be sure to keep an eye on the water level in the container and add more water as needed. The water should cover the crown of the plant but not submerge the leaves or flowers.

A water lily in a pond

7. Care for Your Repotted Water Lily

After repotting, your water lily may go through a brief period of shock where it stops growing or loses some leaves. This is normal and should be temporary.

Make sure the water in the pond is clean and clear, and that the plant receives plenty of sunlight. Fertilize the plant every few weeks during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer designed for aquatic plants.

Repotting a water lily can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools and a little patience, you can give your water lily a new home and help it thrive in your pond or water feature.

water lily, aquatic plants, gardening, pond maintenance, repotting