How to Grow Lotus? Detailed Guide to Cultivation Methods and Precautions

1. Soil

Lotus needs rich pond mud or paddy field mud as the growing medium; never use industrially polluted soil.

2. Temperature

Lotus has fairly strict temperature requirements. At 8-10°C it will sprout, and at 14°C the rhizome will begin to grow; when planting early, the temperature needs to be above 15°C, otherwise growth will be very slow. When summer temperatures are high, it is also unfavorable for its growth and development. The most suitable temperature for lotus growth is 22-35°C.

3. Light

It needs to receive plenty of sunlight, at least 7 hours or more per day, which can promote the growth of more flower buds. Do not grow it in a dark environment, as this can easily shorten the flowering period or even prevent it from blooming. Growing lotus outdoors is best; it can be placed in a courtyard or on a balcony, as long as it is a spot with good light.

4. Fertilizing

Lotus loves fertilizer, but if too much is applied it will scorch it, so apply light fertilizer frequently. In summer, the amount of fertilizer should be appropriately increased, because summer is the flowering period for lotus. If the lotus leaves are very yellow and have no disease spots, it indicates that it is in a state of nutrient deficiency, and fertilizer should be applied in time, roughly once every 15-20 days.

5. Precautions

1. Diseases: Lotus may develop rot disease and leaf blight, but neither is very serious. Once discovered, spray with a fungicide promptly.

2. Pests: Aphids, bagworms and others may appear. Catch them promptly, remove diseased leaves, clear weeds as timely as possible, and carry out appropriate disinfection treatment.