The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and beauty in many cultures around the world. Its large, showy flowers and unique growth form make it a highly desirable plant for both ornamental and cultural purposes. Cultivating lotus in pots allows those without access to a large pond or water garden to enjoy the charm of this aquatic plant right in their own backyard, balcony, or patio. In this article, we will explore in detail all aspects of potted lotus cultivation, from selecting the right variety to post – bloom care.
Selecting the Right Variety
1. Miniature and Dwarf Varieties
For pot cultivation, miniature and dwarf lotus varieties are the best choices. These varieties are specifically bred to have a more compact growth habit, making them suitable for the limited space of a pot. Some popular miniature varieties include ‘Baby Red’, which has vibrant red flowers, and ‘Sunset’, known for its beautiful orange – pink blooms. Dwarf varieties like ‘Little Princess’ produce delicate white flowers and are well – adapted to container growing.
2. Flower Color and Form Preferences
Consider your aesthetic preferences when choosing a variety. Lotus flowers come in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, and yellow. There are also single – petaled, double – petaled, and multi – petaled forms. Single – petaled lotus flowers have a simple and elegant appearance, while double – petaled and multi – petaled varieties offer a more lush and full – bodied look.
Preparing the Pot and Growing Medium
1. Pot Selection
Size: Choose a pot that is at least 18 – 24 inches in diameter and 12 – 18 inches deep. A larger pot will provide more space for the lotus’s roots to spread and grow, resulting in a healthier and more productive plant. However, if you have limited space, a smaller pot can still be used, but you may need to be more vigilant about fertilization and watering.
Material: Clay or plastic pots can both be used. Clay pots are porous, which allows for better air circulation around the roots but may dry out more quickly. Plastic pots are lightweight, easy to clean, and retain moisture better. Whichever material you choose, make sure the pot has at least one drainage hole at the bottom.
2. Growing Medium
Soil: A rich, loamy soil is ideal for potted lotus. You can use a mixture of garden soil, pond mud, and compost. Garden soil provides a basic structure, pond mud is rich in nutrients and has a texture that mimics the natural habitat of lotus, and compost adds organic matter and nutrients. The ratio of garden soil : pond mud : compost can be approximately 3:2:1. Avoid using soil that contains a lot of sand or has a high clay content, as it may not hold water and nutrients well.
Soil Sterilization: Before using the soil, it is a good idea to sterilize it to kill any pests, diseases, or weed seeds. You can do this by baking the soil in an oven at 180 – 200°F (82 – 93°C) for about 30 minutes. Let the soil cool completely before using it.
How To Grow Bonsai Lotus Flower?
1. Obtaining Lotus Tubers
Lotus tubers can be purchased from reputable nurseries, garden centers, or online suppliers. When selecting tubers, look for ones that are firm, plump, and have healthy – looking buds. Avoid tubers that are soft, shriveled, or show signs of rot.
2. Planting Time
The best time to plant lotus tubers in pots is in the spring, when the water temperature has reached at least 60°F (15°C). In regions with a warmer climate, you can plant a bit earlier, while in cooler regions, wait until the danger of frost has passed.
3. Planting Procedure
Fill the Pot: Fill the pot about one – third full with the prepared soil. Gently moisten the soil with water to create a mud – like consistency.
Position the Tuber: Place the lotus tuber horizontally on the soil surface, with the buds facing upwards. The tuber should be about 2 – 3 inches deep in the soil. If you are planting multiple tubers in a large pot, space them at least 6 – 8 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.
Cover the Tuber: Carefully cover the tuber with more soil, leaving the buds exposed. The soil should be level with the top of the tuber.
Add Water: Slowly add water to the pot until the water level is about 2 – 3 inches above the soil surface. Be careful not to disturb the tuber while adding water.
Watering and Moisture Management
1. Water Level
Maintaining the right water level is crucial for the growth of potted lotus. In the early stages of growth, keep the water level at about 2 – 3 inches above the soil surface. As the plant grows and the leaves start to emerge, gradually increase the water level to 6 – 8 inches. During the hot summer months, you may need to add more water to compensate for evaporation.
2. Water Quality
Lotus prefers clean, fresh water. Avoid using water that contains high levels of chlorine, fluoride, or other chemicals. If you are using tap water, let it sit in an open container for 24 – 48 hours before using it to allow the chlorine to dissipate. Rainwater is an excellent source of water for potted lotus as it is free of chemicals and has a balanced pH.
3. Moisture Monitoring
Regularly check the water level in the pot. You can use a simple ruler or a water – level gauge to measure the depth of the water. Also, pay attention to the moisture content of the soil. The soil should be constantly moist but not waterlogged. If the soil becomes too dry, the lotus may wilt and die, while waterlogging can lead to root rot.
Sunlight and Temperature Requirements
1. Sunlight
Lotus is a sun – loving plant and requires at least 6 – 8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. Place your potted lotus in a location that receives full sun, such as a south – facing balcony or patio. If your lotus does not receive enough sunlight, it may produce fewer flowers and have weaker growth.
2. Temperature
Lotus thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 75 – 85°F (24 – 29°C). During the winter, if you live in a region with cold temperatures, you will need to take steps to protect your lotus. In cooler climates, the lotus may go dormant in the winter. You can either move the pot indoors to a cool, but frost – free location, or cover the pot with a thick layer of mulch to insulate it.
Fertilization
1. Fertilizer Type
Use a slow – release, balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for aquatic plants. These fertilizers usually contain a mix of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as other essential micronutrients. The ratio of N – P – K for lotus is typically around 10 – 10 – 10 or 20 – 20 – 20. Avoid using fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production.
2. Fertilization Schedule
Start fertilizing your potted lotus about 2 – 3 weeks after planting, once the plant has started to show new growth. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually every 4 – 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization in the fall as the plant starts to prepare for dormancy, and stop fertilizing completely during the winter.
3. Application Method
You can apply the fertilizer in the form of pellets or tablets. Push the fertilizer pellets or tablets about 2 – 3 inches into the soil, away from the roots to avoid burning them. If you are using a liquid fertilizer, dilute it according to the instructions and add it to the water in the pot.
Pruning and Maintenance
1. Leaf Pruning
Remove any yellow or damaged leaves regularly. Yellow leaves are usually a sign of old age, nutrient deficiency, or disease. By removing these leaves, you can improve the overall appearance of the plant and also prevent the spread of diseases. Use a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the leaves at the base, close to the stem.
2. Deadheading
After the lotus flowers have faded, remove the spent flowers. This process, called deadheading, not only keeps the plant looking neat but also redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to new growth and flower formation. To deadhead, simply cut off the flower stalk just above the first set of healthy leaves.
3. Root Pruning
Over time, the lotus’s roots may become overcrowded in the pot. Every 2 – 3 years, you may need to perform root pruning. This is usually done in the spring, before new growth starts. Carefully remove the plant from the pot, gently wash away the soil from the roots, and trim away any overly long or damaged roots. Then, repot the plant in fresh soil.
Pest and Disease Control
1. Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft – bodied insects that can suck the sap from the lotus leaves and stems. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the presence of a sticky substance called honeydew. To control aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mosquito Larvae: Mosquitoes may lay their eggs in the water of the lotus pot. Mosquito larvae can be a nuisance and may also compete with the lotus for nutrients. To prevent mosquito larvae from growing, you can add a layer of floating plants like water hyacinth or use mosquito dunks, which contain a bacteria that kills mosquito larvae but is harmless to the lotus.
2. Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the lotus leaves. It is usually caused by poor air circulation, over – watering, or high humidity. To treat leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and improve the growing conditions. You can also apply a fungicide according to the instructions.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by over – watering and poor drainage. The roots become soft, mushy, and may turn black. To prevent root rot, ensure that the pot has good drainage and that you do not over – water the plant. If root rot has already occurred, you may need to remove the plant from the pot, trim away the affected roots, and repot it in fresh soil.
Conclusion
Cultivating potted lotus can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, from selecting the right variety and preparing the pot to providing proper care throughout the growing season, you can successfully grow lotus in containers and enjoy its beautiful flowers and unique charm. Remember to be patient, as lotus growth may be slow at first, but with consistent care, your potted lotus will thrive and bring a touch of tranquility and beauty to your outdoor or indoor space. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, potted lotus cultivation is a great way to explore the world of aquatic plants and add a touch of nature to your life.
