Tropical WaterLilies
Tropical Water lilies are not Winter hardy to our area. Although they require extra care, tropical water lilies are well worth having in the water garden. Tropical water lilies bloom more profusely, are much fragrant, and their colors are more brilliant. Tropical Water lilies come in bright shades of blue, pink, purple, red, sunset; white, and yellow. Tropical Water lilies bloom later in the season and have several night blooming varieties. The night bloomers open at dusk and close early in the morning. These are a great option for water gardeners who work from 9-5 as they can enjoy the fragrance and blooms of their tropical lilies. Tropical Water lilies may be over wintered, with proper care.
DEPTH: 12”-36” below the surface of the water.
WINTER CARE: The most successful way is to over winter is in a large aquarium. Tropical lilies will require 75-80º and strong light 12-18 hours each day. If you follow the same steps as storing a hardy lily bare root, you will have about a 50/50 chance of success. Cut leaf stems and roots from tuber, and rinse well. Soak briefly in a mild fungicide solution if available, store in clean, barely damp sand in a cool place, preferably around 55 degrees F.
SPRING CARE: In the spring restart the lily in warm shallow water under good light. Wait until pond has warmed up to place outside. The biggest issue to over wintering Tropical Waterlilies is that they cannot go back into your pond until the water temperature is at least 65º. In colder climates, that does not leave enough time for the plant to grow and bloom before it gets cold again. Many people treat Tropical water lilies as annuals and replace them yearly.
MAINTENANCE: Fertilize monthly to keep the plant blooming. Remove dead foliage and spent flowers regularly throughout the summer, dead heading your lilies will also increase their blooming power.