Water lilies can grow not only on the surface of the water. The rhizomes also spread under water. If the plant's growth has become excessive, not only the above-ground parts of the plant must be removed, but also they must be removed from the bottom of the pond.
How to remove water lily roots?
To remove water lily roots, get into the pond and remove rhizomes manually or with tools such as a saw or spade. If the roots are stubborn and deep, it may be necessary to drain the pond or use machine assistance.
Why water lily roots have to go
If you want to make your water lilies smaller, it is sometimes not enough to just remove the leaves that are visible above the water. In cases where there is a lot of spread, you also have to get to the roots, because the water lily keeps sprouting from them.
Root Removal Challenges
A single water lily embedded in the pond with a plant basket makes it easy for us to remove the roots. But sometimes these can still bond firmly to the ground. Water lilies that have even been planted present us with several challenges:
- difficult to reach in depth
- clouded vision
- very firm roots
Climb into the pond
In a shallow pond, rhizome by rhizome can be removed by hand. To do this you have to get into the water. If you can't tear out the rhizomes by hand, you can also use a saw (€19.00 on Amazon) or a spade. Use caution to avoid damaging other aquatic plants.
Tip
If the pond is lined with foil, it must not be damaged during this action, as it will then no longer be able to fulfill its function.
Stubborn and deep-rooted specimens
Removing water lilies can be a sweaty process if they already have very strong roots. Occasionally it may be necessary to drain the pond. This allows you to see more clearly, reach the roots better and carry out every step more effectively.
Very large roots that you cannot remove from the substrate using your own strength must be removed from the pond using a machine. Tie a sturdy rope to it and pull out the root using a car or other motorized vehicle.
