Choosing the Perfect Big Pot for Growing Vibrant Water Lilies

Water lilies are one of the most iconic and beautiful aquatic plants. With their large, showy blooms floating gracefully on the water’s surface, it’s no wonder they are a staple in ponds and water features worldwide.

When it comes to growing robust, floriferous water lilies yourself, using the right planting container is key. Bigger pots allow ample room for the water lily’s extensive root system to expand horizontally and establish itself. This leads to larger plants, more blooms, and better overall vigor.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into all the nitty-gritty details about selecting the perfect big pot for your water lilies From ideal pot dimensions, key features to look for, potting mix recommendations, and proper positioning, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!

Why Water Lilies Need Sizeable Pots

Water lilies have very large, spreading root structures that require sufficient space to grow properly. The roots also act as anchors to keep the plant fixed in the pond substrate. When water lilies are potted in containers that are too cramped, it restricts root development. This leads to:

• Smaller, stunted plants
• Reduced number and size of blooms
• Very slow growth
• General decline in the plant’s health and vigor

Bigger pots provide plenty of room for the water lily’s roots to expand freely. This enables the plant to reach maturity faster. Mature water lily plants bloom much more prolifically, with larger flower sizes compared to cramped, root-bound specimens.

Choosing the Right Big Pot Size

As a general guideline, the pot’s diameter should be about 2 to 3 times wider than the water lily tuber’s diameter. Here are some common pot dimensions based on the tuber size:

• 2 to 3 inch tubers – 12 inch pot
• 3 to 4 inch tubers – 14 to 16 inch pots
• 4 to 6 inch tubers – 16 to 18 inch pots
• 6 to 8 inch tubers – 18 to 24 inch pots

For maximum blooms, repot the water lily into a larger container every 2 to 3 years as the tuber outgrows its existing pot. Move it up just by about 2 inches bigger each time.

Do note that most standard water lily varieties max out at about 18 to 24 inches diameter pots. Giant tropical water lilies like the Pygmaea and Victoria cultivars can potentially need monster pots up to 48 inches wide!

Key Features to Look For In a Water Lily Pot

When selecting the ideal big pot, keep an eye out for these important features:

• Wide and shallow shape – Since water lilies grow horizontally, a broad, shallow container works much better than narrow and deep pots.

• Drainage holes – The pot must have holes to allow pond water to flow through easily This prevents stagnant water from pooling in the container, which can turn foul

• Durability – Look for sturdy plastic, concrete or ceramic pots that can withstand weather and won’t crack easily. Avoid flimsy pots.

• Handles – Handles make repositioning a heavy, large pot in the pond a breeze.

• Neutral colors – Opt for black, dark green or natural terra-cotta shades. This helps the pot blend into the background. Bright colors can look unsightly.

Recommended Big Pot Options

Here are some excellent large pot choices ideal for water lilies:

• Ceramic or concrete pots – High quality ceramic and concrete pots are extremely durable and last for years. They come in simple round shapes perfect for water lilies, in sizes from 10 inches up to 30 inches in diameter.

• Black plastic nursery pots – Affordable black nursery pots are available in bigger dimensions like 14, 18 or 24 inches. The drainage slits allow proper water circulation.

• Rubbermaid trough planters – For giant water lily varieties, Rubbermaid’s rectangular trough planters provide enormous growing capacity. Sizes range up to 34 x 18 inches.

• Specialty water lily pots – Pots designed specifically for water lilies like the 16 inch Botanica Water Lily Container are great finds.

Positioning the Pot in the Pond

Proper placement of the potted water lily is vital for optimal growth:

• Situate it in the sunniest spot, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Position at a depth of 12 to 36 inches. Adjust as needed through the seasons.

• Allow ample open space around the pot for future growth.

• Angle the pot to maximize sunlight exposure on the top growth.

• Keep 1 to 2 feet between pots so multiple water lilies don’t overcrowd each other.

Filling the Pot with the Right Soil

Use only specialty aquatic potting media designed for ponds, never regular garden soil. Some good options are:

• Clay loam enriched with compost or organic matter

• Packaged aquatic planting mixes

• Special water lily soil blends

Fill the pot about 2/3rd full, leaving room at the top for mulch. Place the tuber horizontally on the soil and cover with a 1-2 inch mulch layer. This protects the tuber and prevents soil runoff.

Fertilizing for Optimal Growth

Water lilies need copious amounts of nutrients. Fertilize regularly during the growing season for the best results. Use water lily fertilizer or all-purpose aquatic plant foods, applied as per directions.

Place slow-release fertilizer tablets under the mulch for continuous feeding. Also replace at least the top third of potting mix annually with fresh soil to replenish nutrients.

The Takeaway

Bigger pots provide the extensive water lily root system ample room to spread out unconstrained. This fuels vigorous growth and magnificent blooms. When selecting the ideal large container, look for a durable pot 2-3 times wider than the tuber, with drainage holes and handles. Position it correctly, use proper aquatic soil mixes, and fertilize regularly. With the right big pot, your water lily will quickly flourish into a breathtaking aquatic centerpiece.