Hardy Water Lilies

HARDY WATER LILIES (nymphaea)

The hardy water lily is one of the most desired water garden plants as they produce magnificent blooms from late Spring and into early Autumn. Most hardy water lilies are perennials in zones 3-10. Hardy water lilies are available in white, red, pink, yellow, changeable, peach/orange, and now in purple. Hardy water lilies are not just for show. Some of the benefits to having water lilies in you pond include: providing shade / protection for fish, shading water helps to reduce algae growth, absorbing excess nutrients from the water, insulating the water from temperature swings, and the pads provide a place for small creatures like frogs to sit.

Planting Hardy Water Lilies:

 It is best to plant hardy water lilies in a heavy clay garden soil. Light weight organic compost or potting mix will float out of the container and not keep your water lily planted. The crown of the water lily (the growing end) should be placed towards the center of the planting container. DO NOT cover the crown of the water lily with soil or gravel. Doing so may kill your water lily. Fertilize your water lily monthly with highland fertilizer tablets or yearly with Laguna Fertilizer Spikes during growing months for best results. For planting depth see individual water lily descriptions.