We all know the enchanting sight of numerous lotus flowers in the pond. But this can rarely be achieved at home. However, a single specimen can definitely live in a pot, as long as it is given plenty of the feel-good element of water.
How do I care for a potted lotus flower?
To successfully care for a lotus flower in a pot, you need a round pot with at least 50 cm diameter and 60 cm depth, loamy garden soil without organic additions, starter fertilization with special mineral fertilizer and sufficiently warm water. Plant the rhizome in spring and ensure a water depth of at least 15 cm.
A tailor-made pot
Square plant pots are not suitable for a lotus flower because corners represent an insurmountable obstacle for it. If it comes across it, it cannot continue to grow and will soon die. Therefore, be sure to choose a round pot in which the lotus flower can grow along the edge. It should be around 50 cm in diameter and at least 60 cm deep. The following vessels are available, among others:
- a standard mortar bucket (possibly decorated on the outside)
- a discarded wine barrel
- an old tin tub
Tip
The lotus flower is a heat-loving plant. Therefore, if possible, choose a dark pot as it heats up faster in the sun and can retain this heat for longer.
Tight time window for planting
The lotus flower is undemanding to care for, but its rhizome is extremely sensitive. That's why all work in the root area, including planting, is carried out outside the growing season. The annual dormancy phase of this aquatic plant lasts only a short time, from March to early May. You should wait for this time or not miss it.
If you prefer to grow from seeds, you can do so indoors all year round. Follow the instructions provided by the provider to ensure germination is successful.
Simple garden soil without organic additions
The lotus flower is happy to make do with garden soil. This can contain clay as it offers more stability. If necessary, clay powder or bentonite can be added. Under no circumstances should you enrich them with compost, bark mulch or peat, as organic material combined with water promotes rot. Make sure that the soil you buy does not contain such components.
Planting steps in order
Follow the following steps, because on the one hand the lotus flower needs initial fertilization, on the other hand the rhizome must not have direct contact with the fertilizer. Don't worry, the roots that sprout quickly will reach the nutrients and absorb them.
- Fill pot 30% with soil
- mix a special mineral fertilizer underneath
- Observe the manufacturer’s dosage instructions
- add the same amount of soil on top, this time without fertilizer
- Pour water until the soil becomes “mushy”
- draw a depression and carefully place the rhizome in it
- Do not cover the shoots of the rhizome with soil
- Pour 10 to 15 cm of lukewarm water
Further care in the pot
You have to overwinter the freshly planted lotus flower indoors until mid-May before it can enjoy fresh air and sun outside until the first frosts. It can also be grown in a pot as a houseplant all year round.
The water above her must always be at least 15 cm high. You can fertilize twice a year with a special fertilizer (€5.00 on Amazon). There is no cutting, only wilted leaves are removed.
