Waterlily: Graceful Beauty for Your Pond (NYMPHAEA)

Waterlilies are captivating aquatic plants known for their elegant flowers and lily pad leaves that bring a touch of serenity to any pond. But their beauty isn't all they offer. Here's a guide to caring for these delightful plants:

Plant Care Tips:

Location: Waterlilies thrive in full sun with calm water. Avoid areas with strong currents or waterfalls.
Planting: Use aquatic baskets filled with aquatic compost or heavy clay loam. Plant the crown of the waterlily just beneath the water surface, with the growing tip exposed.
Feeding: Waterlilies are moderately heavy feeders. Use slow-release aquatic fertilizer tablets pushed into the basket to nourish the plant directly, not the surrounding water. Fertilize once a spring for hardy varieties and more frequently for tropical ones.
Pruning: Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves by cutting the stem underwater at its base. This encourages new blooms and keeps the pond tidy.
Overwintering: Hardy waterlilies can stay in the pond year-round in climates where the water doesn't freeze solid. In colder regions, reduce dead foliage in fall and lower the basket to the deepest part of the pond. For tropical varieties, bring the pots indoors to a warm, protected location over winter.
Light Level:

Waterlilies are sun-loving plants and require full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) for optimal growth and flowering.

Toxicity:

Be aware that waterlilies are mildly toxic if ingested. This is a caution primarily for households with pets or small children who might be tempted to nibble on the leaves or flowers.

With proper care, waterlilies will reward you with a stunning display of blooms throughout the growing season, adding a touch of tranquility and grace to your water feature.