WATER LILY

The aquatic plant (Nymphaea) has been casting its spell on humans for thousands of years, enthralling even the earliest civilizations. This mysterious beauty rises from the deep, leaves floating serenely on the surface, exquisite blossoms appearing as if by magic. Once the province of grand palaces and public gardens, the water lily is finding its way to the home garden.
While water lilies seem delicate, don't let their exotic aura fool you. These flowers area unit as robust as they're stunning. Water lilies grow well in any Department of Agriculture strength zone.

All About Water Lilies

Water lilies can be grown in a tub on the patio or in ponds of any size. They grow from tubers planted in pots beneath the water and send up stems with rounded leaves and star-shaped blossoms that float on the surface. There are many different types of water lilies to choose from.
Hardy lilies are dependable and easy to plant—a good choice for the beginner. Daytime bloomers, they blossom in the morning and close after sunset, lasting three or four days before sinking beneath the surface. The flowers seem from spring to fall, blooming in all colors except blues and purples. Hardy water lilies go dormant in winter and will be left within the water or keep. Tropical water lilies, which bloom in more exotic colors, take a little more care but are well worth the effort. Their flowers are larger and more prolific. Night-blooming varieties have vibrant, almost electric colors. Tropical water lilies need a water temperature on top of seventy degrees F, and tubers should be off from the pool in winter..

Tips for Clear Pond Water

• Don't overfertilize plants; you'll feed the algae that turn pond water green.
• Don't overfeed the fish or have too many fish for the size of the pond.
• Remove decaying vegetation.
• Make sure 60 percent of the pond is shaded by lily pads or other plants.
• Keep water well-oxygenated with aerators, fountains, or waterfalls.
• Don't kill algae with chemical treatments; that will hurt plants, fish, and beneficial bacteria that live in the pond.