How to Grow Potted Lotus? A Detailed Guide to the Planting Method
There are many varieties of lotus, which can be divided into two main categories: ornamental and edible. The lotus is one of the ten most famous flowers in China, elegant in appearance and rich in color, symbolizing integrity and noble qualities. The common way to grow lotus is in ponds, where you can eat the lotus root and lotus seeds, and also admire the lotus in summer. Nowadays some people also grow them in pots at home. Let's take a look at the specific planting method below.
I. What is the planting method for potted beautiful lotus?
1. Seed selection
Lotus can be grown either by raising seedlings from lotus seeds and transplanting them, or by planting lotus root. The latter takes less time to bloom, but there are certain points to note when choosing. You should buy ornamental lotus root varieties, and it is best to purchase them from a specialized source.
2. Choose a suitable pot
Since it is potted lotus, you naturally cannot do without choosing a suitable pot. Unlike ordinary flowers, you cannot just pick a pretty flowerpot for lotus, because it needs a large amount of water to grow. It is recommended to choose an old-style, ornamental water vat. The vat's diameter should be large, and the height slightly shorter is fine.
3. Soil selection
Potted lotus also needs a small amount of soil. The soil must first be spread out in the sun to sterilize it, then placed in the water vat with water added. Once the water is about five centimeters above the soil, you can plant.
4. Planting method
Insert the prepared lotus root into the sterilized soil, bury it completely, with the growing stem facing upward. After that, you can simply wait slowly for the lotus to bloom.
To enhance the ornamental appeal of potted lotus, you can also keep a few goldfish in the water, which adds a touch of vitality, just right.
II. Key care points for potted lotus
1. Water quality
Potted lotus has relatively high requirements for water quality. If you add tap water, it should be sunned for one or two days in advance. In summer, be careful that it does not get too dry; in winter, just keep the potting soil moist, and a large amount of water is not needed.
2. Light conditions
Lotus likes light. Sufficient light can produce more flower buds and better blooms.
3. Temperature requirements
Lotus has relatively high temperature requirements for growth. The optimal temperature for sprouting is 8 to 10 degrees Celsius; the temperature for lotus root runner growth is 14 degrees Celsius; the optimal temperature for growth and development is 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. It grows especially well in seasons with alternating rainy and sunny days.
4. Fertilization points
For fertilizing potted lotus, the amount mainly depends on the size of the water vat, and it should also be determined according to the specific growth condition of the lotus. Remember the key points of frequent fertilization and light fertilization. Do not apply too much fertilizer at one time.
5. Overwintering management
After entering winter, potted lotus should be moved indoors to a relatively warm place for care. In addition, the potting soil still needs to be kept moist.