How to Grow Lotus
Nelumbo nucifera
Sacred Lotus is a dramatic aquatic perennial with large circular leaves held above the water on tall stems and spectacular pink or white flowers in summer. Plant rhizomes horizontally in heavy loam in wide, shallow containers submerged 10-20 cm below the water surface. Needs full sun and warm water (above 20C) to grow actively. Feed monthly with aquatic fertiliser tablets from late spring to summer. Rhizomes survive mild frost if kept in mud below the ice line, but in cold climates move containers to a frost-free location or sink deeper for winter. Completely distinct from water lilies, which float their leaves on the surface.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Push aquatic fertiliser tablets into the planting container monthly from late spring through summer once leaves emerge above water. Never scatter loose fertiliser into the pond.
Watch For
- Aphids on emergent leaves
- Crown rot from waterlogged rhizomes in cold soil
- China mark moth larvae
Companions
Water Iris, Papyrus, Water Hyacinth, Pontederia
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun, minimum 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Lotus requires abundant direct sunlight to flower well. Choose the sunniest position available in the pond or on the patio. Shade significantly reduces flowering.
Watering
Aquatic plant, permanently submerged in water.
The container must remain submerged at all times during the growing season. Maintain 10-20 cm of water above the soil surface. Top up during hot weather to prevent rhizomes drying out.
Fertilizing
Aquatic fertiliser tablets monthly during active growth.
Push 2-4 slow-release aquatic fertiliser tablets into the soil each month from late spring to late summer. Do not use liquid or granular fertiliser as it dissolves into the water and feeds algae.
Pruning
Remove spent leaves and flowers above the waterline.
Cut dead or yellowing stems above the water surface to prevent water entering the hollow stems and rotting the rhizome. Never cut below the waterline. Remove seed pods unless you want ornamental dried heads.
Spacing
1-2 square metres of water surface per plant.
Each lotus needs a container at least 60 cm wide. In open ponds, allow 1-2 square metres per plant. Dwarf varieties can manage in 40 cm containers but still need full sun exposure.
Support
No support needed; stems are self-supporting.
Lotus stems are rigid and hold leaves and flowers well above the water without any staking or support structure. Shelter from strong winds helps prevent stem damage.
Growing Tips
Use Wide Shallow Containers
Lotus rhizomes grow horizontally and need room to spread. Use containers at least 60 cm wide and 30 cm deep, filled with heavy clay loam. Avoid peat or lightweight mixes that float away.
Wait for Warm Water
Lotus will not grow until the water temperature consistently exceeds 20C. Do not plant too early in spring or expect growth in cold water. Patience is essential.
Never Cut Stems Below Water
Lotus stems are hollow. If cut below the waterline, water enters the rhizome through the stem and causes rot. Always cut spent leaves and flowers above the water surface.
Protect Rhizomes in Winter
In cold climates, ensure rhizomes stay below the ice line in mud that does not freeze solid. Move containers to the deepest part of the pond or store in a frost-free location over winter.
