where to buy water lilies near me

Where to Buy Water Lilies Near Me

Water lilies are beautiful aquatic plants that add charm and elegance to ponds water gardens, and other water features. Their large circular leaves and showy flowers floating gracefully on the water’s surface create an enchanting focal point. If you’re looking to add water lilies to your backyard pond or water garden, you may be wondering where to find these lovely plants near you. Fortunately, water lilies are widely available from nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers. Here are some tips on where to buy water lilies locally or online.

Check Local Nurseries and Garden Centers
Many local independent nurseries and larger garden centers carry a selection of water lilies. Visit a few in your area to see what they offer. Let the staff know you’re searching for water lilies so they can point you to their aquatic plant section. The selection may vary seasonally, with the best availability in spring and early summer when ponds and water gardens are typically installed. Some tips when buying at local nurseries:

• Look for companies specializing in aquatic plants. They will likely have the best selection and knowledge.

• Inspect water lily plants carefully. Choose those with healthy foliage and well-established root systems. Avoid any with signs of disease, pests, or damage.

• Ask questions. Inquire about bloom color, size, optimal sun exposure, and other factors to select the right lily for your needs.

• Consider buying potted plants vs bare root. Potted water lilies are easier for beginners to establish successfully.

• Be aware of local availability. Some nurseries only stock a few popular varieties. Order early for best selection.

Large Home Improvement Chains
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s provide convenient options for finding water lilies locally. Their garden centers offer a limited but decent selection of popular water lily varieties in season. The plants are often bare root and come packaged in plastic with some moisture-retaining material around the roots. Big box stores have the advantage of national availability. If local nurseries don’t have what you want, check the chains. Just be aware that their stock is mass-produced and not always the healthiest. Inspect plants closely before purchasing.

Online Retailers
Ordering water lilies online is convenient and provides the widest selection of varieties. Reputable online aquatic plant retailers ship healthy, established water lily plants nationwide. Here are some tips for buying water lilies online:

• Stick with specialized aquatics retailers rather than general nurseries. You’ll get healthier plants and better service.

• Check seller reviews and look for guarantees/warranties. This helps avoid disappointment with poor quality plants.

• Order early, especially for rare or unusual varieties which may sell out. Spring and fall are busy times.

• Unless you’re an expert, avoid bare root plants and buy potted instead. They are easier to establish in ponds as a beginner.

• Look for fast, 2-3 day shipping options to reduce time in transit.

• Water lilies can be shipped nearly year round in most climates. But avoid ordering in extreme summer or winter.

Recommended Online Retailers
Here are some top rated online water lily retailers to consider:

• Pond Megastore – Extensive selection of both hardy and tropical water lilies. Family-owned business with excellent service and healthy plants.

• Aquarium Plants Factory – Ships beautiful, potted water lilies year round. One of the widest varieties available.

• Next Day Water Gardens – Specializes in water lilies and other pond plants. Good prices and selection.

• Water Garden Gems – Reliable source for hardy and tropical water lilies. Free shipping on orders over $75.

• eBay – Individual sellers offer a wide range of water lily varieties, often at discounted prices. Check seller ratings.

What Type of Water Lily to Choose
Water lilies are classified as either hardy or tropical. Hardy water lilies survive winter in ponds in most climates, while tropicals are treated as annuals and must be replaced each year. Some factors to consider when selecting:

• Hardiness Zone – Choose hardy water lilies that are rated at least two zones colder than your area. Tropicals can be grown in any zone as annuals.

• Bloom color – Water lily flowers come in shades of white, pink, yellow, red, purple, blue, and more. Decide on your favorite color or mix several.

• Bloom time – Some water lilies open in the morning, others in the afternoon or evening. Choose timing that best suits your schedule to enjoy them.

• Size – Dwarf lilies under 3 feet are ideal for small ponds. Larger varieties can spread 6 feet or more across.

• Water depth – Standard lilies need 6 inches to 5 feet of water. Miniatures and dwarf types work in just a few inches.

• Light – Most water lilies need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Some work in part shade.

When buying locally, inspect the plants closely and get expert guidance to match the right water lily to your specific growing conditions. If buying online, read plant descriptions carefully to choose varieties suited for your climate and pond size. Order early for the best selection. With proper selection and care, water lilies ordered online or sourced locally can provide beauty in your backyard water feature for years of enjoyment.