Lotus is a hardy aquatic plant that makes a great addition to any space. It is easy to cultivate and care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions. To help you get started with growing your lotus plant, here’s a quick-growing guide to consider. [39]
How to grow water lotus from seeds.
- Sowing: plant in the ideal temperature and sunshine. Lotus seeds can be sowed at any time of a year. It usually takes around 50 to 60 days from sowing to blossoming, a little longer in autumn (60 – 80days), without any dormant period.
- Seed treatment: break a little mouth on the sunken end of the seed, being careful not to hurt the embryo. Do not peel.
- Seed germination: in summer, seeds should be good to be submerged in water. Keep them inside and changed the water twice a day. It should germinate within 1 week. After it has germinated, move it towards the sun, strengthen light each day but never let it dry out. It will grow fine-roots and 2 to 3 young small lotus leaves after two weeks.
- Transplanting: choose a proper basin, put in a half basin of garden soil or soil without any chemicals. Immerse the soil in water for 2 weeks before you transplant the plant. Carefully transplant the seedlings into the soil, each into one basin. Top up the water after transplanting. (do not cover the lotus leaves)
Light
Lotus is a perennial plant that needs 5 to 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well and produce flowers. Although it can tolerate some shade, it thrives best in a sunny, warm environment. If the amount of light is not sufficient, the plant may have a hard time blooming. [39]
Temperature and Water
Lotus plants require water temperatures between 22 – 30 degrees Celcius. Note that the flowers won’t start blooming early in the season. They often need weeks of hot weather before they will start flowering. [39]
Water depth is crucial when growing lotus plants. Thus, keep in mind to place your plant submerged in relatively still water, with at least 2 to 4 inches of water above the soil. For dwarf cultivars, the ideal water depth is between 2 to 12 inches. It’s best to do an occasional flush to avoid the accumulation of minerals in the water. [39]
Planting or Potting
When planting a lotus, pick a deep pot, planter, or container to allow ample space as the plant grows. Any material will do, as long as it measures 3 to 5 ft in width, especially for cultivars that can grow at least 5 ft. Submerge the hole-free container about 15-30cm below the water’s surface. Avoid using potting soil because it will only float out of the pot. Use dense soil or clay soil instead. [39]
Feeding
Like any other plant, lotus plants benefit from the use of fertilisers. Whether it’s slow- or fast-release, or liquid or granules, any kind of fertilisers will help the lotus plant grow better. Your best option, though, is an aquatic plant fertiliser. Also, one thing to note is the timing of fertilisation. Lotus plants first produce floating leaves, also known as aerial pads, and then standing leaves follow. Please note, only fertilize in spring when the standing leaves begin to emerge.
Be careful not to over-fertilise your lotus because too much fertilizer may burn the leaves of your plant. [39]
Lotus Flower Care
Lotus plants are mainly grown for their charming blooms. So, lotus cut flowers are not out of the ordinary. They can last for only a few hours to a day once picked, making them ideal for short-lived arrangements. Since the flowers are not long-lasting like other cut flowers, the seed pods also make a great alternative in floral arrangements. They can be used fresh or dried. [39]
- Folding the petals of an unopened lotus flower helps make it hold its shape much longer.
- Hydrate your lotus cut flower by placing it in a clean vase with clean water.
- Place it in average room temperature (20 to 25 degree C) or a fridge (12 C) for 1 to 2 days.
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