Water lilies, known for their elegant blooms and serene floating leaves, can be cultivated indoors with careful selection and proper techniques. They bring a unique tranquility and natural beauty to any living space. Growing them indoors requires attention to specific environmental conditions, but the vibrant flowers and lush foliage are a significant reward.
Choosing Water Lilies for Indoors
Selecting the appropriate water lily variety is the first step toward successful indoor cultivation. Water lilies are categorized into two main types: hardy and tropical. Hardy water lilies withstand colder temperatures and typically go dormant in winter. Tropical water lilies require warmer water and continuous growing conditions, often blooming profusely year-round.
For indoor growing, tropical water lilies, especially dwarf and viviparous varieties, are often more suitable. Tropical lilies thrive in consistent indoor temperatures due to their low cold tolerance. Viviparous types reproduce by forming new plantlets on their leaves, offering easy propagation. Dwarf hardy varieties are also viable options due to their smaller size, making them manageable for indoor containers. Suitable dwarf hardy cultivars include ‘Aurora’ (orange-apricot), ‘Denver’ (yellow), ‘Fabiola’ (pink), and ‘Hermine’ (white), with miniature options like ‘Helvola’ and ‘Perry Baby Red’ also being excellent choices.
Setting Up Your Indoor Water Garden
Container Selection
The foundation of an indoor water lily setup is choosing the correct container. Water lilies require a wide, non-porous container to accommodate their root systems and allow leaves to spread. Suitable options include large glass bowls, wide ceramic pots without drainage holes, or small fish tanks. For dwarf varieties, a container with a diameter of 12 to 16 inches and a depth of at least 7 to 10 inches is often sufficient. Some larger dwarf hardy varieties may require containers up to 15-25 gallons.
Substrate and Planting
Water lilies need a heavy growing medium to anchor their rhizomes and provide nutrients; avoid standard potting mixes containing perlite or vermiculite as they float. A heavy loam, clay-based soil, or specialized aquatic planting mix is ideal. To plant, fill a mesh planting basket or net pot with the substrate. Position the water lily rhizome horizontally or at a slight angle (around 45 degrees) with the growing tip pointing towards the center of the pot and slightly exposed. Cover the soil with a layer of washed gravel or small pebbles to prevent clouding and deter fish from disturbing roots.
Water Preparation
Once potted, fill the container with water. Dechlorinated tap water is suitable; allow it to sit for at least 24 hours to dissipate chlorine. Rainwater or distilled water are also good choices as they are chemical-free. Slowly fill the container, being careful not to dislodge the substrate. The water level should be at least 6 to 12 inches above the top of the planted pot to allow leaves to float naturally.
Indoor Water Lily Care
Light Requirements
Water lilies are sun-loving plants and require abundant light to thrive and bloom indoors. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with 8 to 10 hours optimal for blooming. A south-facing window is often the best natural light option. If natural light is insufficient, supplemental grow lights are necessary. Strong LED grow lights, run for 12 to 18 hours a day, can provide the intensity needed to encourage flowering.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintaining consistent water temperature is important for indoor water lilies, especially tropical varieties. Tropical water lilies prefer water temperatures around 70-80°F (21-27°C) for growth and blooming. Hardy water lilies tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, ideally around 68°F (20°C), but consistent warmth prevents dormancy. An aquarium heater can help maintain stable water temperatures.
Water Quality and Changes
Regular water changes are recommended to prevent algae buildup and maintain optimal conditions. Changing the water periodically helps maintain freshness and prevent stagnation. When water evaporates, top it off with dechlorinated water that has reached room temperature. An air bubbler, similar to those used in aquariums, can help aerate the water and reduce the frequency of full water changes by preventing it from becoming stale or smelly.
Fertilization
Water lilies are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization to support growth and flowering. Specialized aquatic plant fertilizers, often in tablets or spikes, are ideal. Insert these tablets into the substrate around the plant’s base, being careful not to damage roots. During the growing season, fertilize every two to four weeks, or as recommended by the product. A fertilizer with higher phosphorus content promotes blooms.
Pruning and Maintenance
Ongoing pruning is essential for the health and appearance of indoor water lilies. Regularly remove yellowing or decaying leaves and spent flowers. Cut these as close to the plant’s base as possible to prevent rotting in the water, which can lead to stagnation and algae growth. Sterilized scissors or shears are recommended for pruning to avoid introducing diseases. This maintenance redirects the plant’s energy towards new growth and continuous blooming.
Addressing Common Issues
Algae growth is a common problem in indoor water lily setups, often caused by excessive light or nutrient levels. Reducing light exposure, performing more frequent water changes, or introducing aquatic snails can help manage algae. Ensuring the water lily receives sufficient nutrients also helps, as healthy lilies can outcompete algae for resources.
A lack of blooms often points to specific environmental deficiencies. Insufficient light is a primary reason for poor flowering, requiring increased direct sunlight or supplemental grow lighting. Inadequate fertilization can also hinder blooming, so ensure the plant receives regular aquatic fertilizer tablets. Plant maturity also plays a role, as newly planted water lilies may take time to establish and flower.
Pests are less common with indoor aquatic plants but can occur. Aphids or spider mites might appear on leaves, particularly if humidity is low. These can often be dislodged with a gentle water spray. For persistent issues, consider insecticidal soaps formulated for aquatic plants or biological controls, with careful research to avoid harming the plant or water quality.
Yellowing leaves indicate a potential problem with the plant’s health. While older leaves naturally yellow, widespread yellowing may signal a nutrient deficiency (particularly nitrogen) or water quality issues. Checking fertilizer levels and performing a water change can often resolve this. Overcrowding in the container can also lead to yellowing as the plant struggles for resources.