Lotus flowers take a break from autumn onwards. Growth-promoting heat is not expected now, but the plants from India and America must not freeze to death either. They cannot always overcome a frosty winter on their own. We are in demand!
How can you overwinter a lotus flower successfully?
There are two options for overwintering a lotus flower: in a pond, 30 cm deep and frost-free water, or in a dark, cool room (5-15 ° C) covered with pond water. Potted specimens require winter quarters or should be buried and protected.
Wintering in the pond
In a pond, the lotus flower can survive frosty days unscathed as long as the water surrounding it does not freeze over. Plant it as recommended at a depth of around 30 cm, then it will be sufficiently protected, at least in mild winters.
If your region is known for harsh winters or if you only have a small, shallow pond, wintering there is a gamble. The lotus flower can gain a new year or lose its life.
Getting lotus flower out of the pond
If you don't want to take any risks, the plant should leave the pond in good time. Ideally, it is rooted in a plant basket that you can simply take out of the water in autumn.
- Place plant bowl in bucket
- Cover lotus flower about 30 cm with pond water
- first remove all wilted parts
- overwinter at 5-15 °C and dark
- for example in the basement
Tip
Make sure the water doesn't go bad. Oily layers on the surface and a foul smell are urgent requests to change the water.
Pot specimens belong in winter quarters
The water in the pot freezes more quickly, so overwintering outdoors is not recommended. A lotus flower in a pot therefore moves, along with its pot, to a suitable winter quarters from November onwards. This must be dark and at 8-10 °C. If necessary, insulate the pot additionally with Styrofoam (€7.00 on Amazon).
All above-ground plant parts are cut off. Care is limited to refilling water, as the water level must not fall even in winter. The lotus flower remains in winter quarters until around March. Even a lotus flower cultivated as a houseplant needs a rest period in winter and should also be overwintered.
Alternatively, bury the pot
If you cannot offer the lotus flower suitable winter quarters, you should at least protect it as best you can. Before the first frost, dig the pot into the ground where the icy cold is less likely to reach it. Remove any wilted parts of the plant and cover the pot with a wooden board. Keep an eye on the water level here too!
