Do I need to fertilize my water lilies?
Waterlilies are renowned for their striking beauty and are a perfect addition to any backyard koi pond. These aquatic plants not only enhance the aesthetics of the pond but also provide shade and shelter for your cherished koi. To ensure the healthy growth and vibrant blooms of waterlilies, proper fertilization is crucial.
Do you want to see dinner plate-size lily pads in your pond? How about large, abundant, colorful flowers? Me too!
By providing essential nutrients, you can promote robust growth, abundant blooms, and vibrant colors. Well-nourished waterlilies develop strong roots, sturdy stems, and lush green foliage. They are more resistant to diseases and pests, ensuring their longevity and continued beauty. Fertilized water lilies will produce large pads and beautiful flowers.
So the answer is – Yes, you DO need to fertilize your water lilies!
How do you fertilize water lilies and how often?
Selecting the appropriate fertilizer is not that difficult as there are not that may choices out there. I have seen fertilizers that are in powder (granular), small pill-like tablets, or larger tablets. I prefer the larger tablets as they are easier to work with.
Look for a slow-release, fertilizer specifically formulated for aquatic plants. These fertilizers are designed to gradually release nutrients over an extended period, ensuring a sustained supply for the waterlilies.
What not to use when fertilizing the water lilies
Do not use general garden fertilizers, potted flower or garden fertilizers. They are not for aquatic plants and may contain high levels of phosphorus, which can harm the pond’s ecosystem, not to mention cause algae blooms.
Enhancing the beauty of your pond water lilies
Regular fertilization is essential to sustain the growth and blooming of waterlilies. Fertilize approximately once a month during the growing season and stop fertilizing as the water temperatures begin to be under 60 degrees.
Waterlilies have a high nutrient requirement, so ensure you follow the recommended dosage and frequency specified by the fertilizer manufacturer.
Kristi’s Tips
Pruning: Remove dead and decaying foliage when they being to turn brown to avoid their decomposition from affecting water quality.
Over crowding: If water lily pads are so abundant that the pads are overlapping each other you will need to remove some of the plants. Overcrowding can cause disease in the plants. Divide and repot. If they are growing directly in the substrate of the pond, you may have to remove some of the over growing tubers.
String algae: Waterlilies thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water. Make sure there is water movement as well as aerators where needed. If string algae is all over the water lilies it can inhibit their growth. Remove string algae if it comes up and remember that if it suddenly goes crazy, you might want to check for water loss as it is a good indication of too much fresh water coming in.
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