Repotting Water Lilies

The water lilies have been a feature of the garden for decades. Although it is somewhat of a lottery whether they will produce many flowers in any given year, they do seem to quite like the ponds. This is a little surprising given that the lower pond is shaded by the patio and according to the literature is not an ideal location for these aquatics.

Every few years it is necessary to lift the lilies and repot them into a fresh medium, primarily because they will outgrow the container. The divisions will also provide you with new plants. Earlier this week I managed to tackle the lilies in the upper pond.

1. The lily has been removed from the water and the rhizome divided to make two plants. The old basket can be seen to be clearly damaged by the strength of the roots.

2. One of the divisions. The growing tips can be easily identified, even at this early stage of the year, and some roots can be trimmed a little.

3. Using aquatic water baskets the lilies are ready to be repotted, I would also recommend a light sprinkling of proprietary feed.

4. The lily is firmed into the basket with either special aquatic compost, or as I use, some of the heavier unimproved clay from the top of the garden.

5. Finally, the potted lily section is covered with prewashed grit or pea gravel. The washing avoids clouding the pond water with dust and the gravel holds the soil in place when the plant is resubmerged.

Of course, all of this is that little bit easier if you have a bit of help, thanks Mili,

 .....and hopefully the lilies will survive to flower again in the summer, as this lovely pair did last year.