Growing and Caring for Water Lilies Indoors: A Complete Guide
Water lilies, with their large floating leaves and delicate, colorful flowers, are prized for their beauty. They are typically found in ponds or other large outdoor water features. But have you ever wondered if you can grow these stunning plants indoors to enjoy on a daily basis? While it is possible to grow water lilies as houseplants, it can be quite challenging. Even with the best growing conditions, you may not always succeed in getting them to bloom. However, if you are up for the challenge and ready to put in the effort, growing water lilies indoors can be a rewarding experience.
Can You Grow Water Lilies Indoors?
Growing water lilies indoors requires carefully controlled water temperature, water quality, and a significant amount of light. These plants are quite finicky when it comes to indoor conditions, making them more suitable for dedicated enthusiasts rather than casual plant lovers. There are approximately 50 species of water lilies, divided into two main groups: tropical and hardy water lilies.
- Tropical water lilies: These are warm-water plants with large, colorful flowers that are not very practical for indoor growing due to their size and specific temperature requirements.
- Hardy water lilies: These grow in temperate regions and are the best option for indoor growing, especially dwarf varieties that are suitable for smaller water containers.
How to Grow Water Lilies Indoors
Sunlight
To have any chance of blooming indoors, water lilies need a significant amount of sunlight. They require at least four to eight hours of full, direct sunlight daily to thrive.
Artificial Light
If you don’t have access to direct sunlight, you may need to supplement with grow lights. Place the lights directly above the plants and run them for 12 to 18 hours a day to mimic natural sunlight.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintaining the proper water temperature is crucial for the success of your water lilies. Tropical water lilies require water temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit to thrive, while hardy water lilies are more adaptable to cooler temperatures.
Watering
Keep the water level in the container consistent by adding spring water or distilled water that has reached room temperature. If using tap water, let it sit for 24 hours to allow the chlorine to dissipate.
Water Circulation
An air bubbler can help keep the water aerated and prevent it from becoming stagnant. Proper aeration can reduce the frequency of water changes.
Fertilizer
Water lilies benefit from added liquid fertilizer or fertilizer pellets for aquatic plants. When adding water to the container, supplement with a small amount of fertilizer.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regularly remove dead leaves to keep the water fresh. While stagnant water may cause an unpleasant smell, it won’t harm the plants. Changing the water periodically is acceptable.
Container and Size
Water lilies are typically grown in porous net baskets submerged in larger water containers or ponds. Tropical water lilies require a substantial water surface area, which may not be practical indoors. Hardy water lilies, especially dwarf varieties, can thrive in smaller containers such as fish tanks or washtubs.
Potting Soil and Drainage
Use a plastic net pot filled with rocks at the bottom to weigh it down, then add a growing medium such as sand or perlite. Proper drainage is essential for water lilies, even though they are fully aquatic plants.
Potting and Repotting Water Lilies
After planting the water lily in the net pot, ensure the growing tip is slightly exposed while the rhizome remains buried. Repotting is generally unnecessary, and it’s best to start with a new plant once the current one outgrows its container.
Moving Indoor Water Lilies Outdoors
While it may not always be practical to transition indoor water lilies to outdoor environments, it’s possible to wheel the entire container to an outdoor patio during warmer months. However, be cautious of shocking the plants with sudden changes in water temperatures and conditions.
Overwintering Outdoor Water Lilies
In colder climates, outdoor water lilies can be overwintered indoors in a dormant state. Tropical water lilies require stable temperatures, while hardy water lilies can be stored in cooler environments and then reintroduced to outdoor ponds in the spring. With proper care, water lilies can live for many years.
Hardy water lilies in dwarf varieties are recommended for indoor growing, with options such as ‘Aurora’, ‘Denver’, ‘Fabiola’, and ‘Hermine’ known for their beautiful flowers. While it may take some time for water lilies to acclimate to indoor conditions, with patience and careful attention, you can successfully grow these stunning plants indoors.
Remember, growing water lilies indoors requires dedication and a willingness to adapt to the needs of these unique plants. By following these tips and guidelines, you can create a thriving indoor water garden that brings beauty and tranquility to your living space.
