How to Plant Lotus Flowers and When Do They Bloom? A Complete Guide to Growing Water Lotus

Lotus is also called lotus flower and water lotus, among other names. Because of its beautiful appearance and extremely high ornamental value, and because every part of it is useful - not only the lotus root and lotus seeds can be eaten, but its rhizome, leaves and flowers can all be used as medicine - it is deeply loved by everyone. Its significant economic benefits from cultivation have also made many growers want to plant it. So how do you plant lotus? When does it bloom?

I. How to Plant Lotus?

1. Planting Environment

Lotus is an aquatic plant, so ponds are generally chosen for planting. When planting, slow water flow and a stable water level are required. Lotus does not have high demands for water quality, but the water must not be seriously polluted. The bottom of the pond requires deep soil, and a water depth of 1-1.5 m is sufficient. In addition, lotus is a sun-loving plant and needs more than 10 hours of light per day. Also, to prevent lotus from being eaten by fish and shrimp, all fish and shrimp in the pond should be cleared out before planting, and protective measures should be taken to prevent fish from entering.

2. Sowing

Lotus seeds have a relatively hard outer shell. Before planting, the shell must first be broken so the seeds can germinate smoothly. Generally, scissors can be used to cut a small hole in the shell, then the seeds are soaked in clean water for 2 weeks so they absorb enough water and germinate and grow leaves, after which they can be sown. When soaking the seeds, be sure to change the water every day to avoid water quality deterioration affecting seed germination. When sowing, first drain the pond water, and after a few days of sun exposure, when the bottom soil is in a slightly dry state, bury the seeds and maintain light exposure.

3. Fertilizer and Water Management

Lotus has different water requirements at each stage. Generally, shallow water is used in the early growth stage, deeper water in the middle stage, and less water in the later stage, and the water level should be kept within 1.5 m. To make lotus grow quickly, fertilization is essential. Before planting, generally apply 3000 kg of organic fertilizer per mu plus an appropriate amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer as base fertilizer. The principle for topdressing is light application at the seedling stage, heavy application during flower bud formation, and frequent application during the flowering and fruiting stage. At the seedling stage, apply 30 kg of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer and 10 kg of nitrogen fertilizer per mu. At the flower bud stage, increase it by 1-2 times the seedling stage amount according to plant growth conditions. During the flowering and fruiting stage, to improve the seed-setting rate, topdress generally once every 20 days.

4. Field Management

When planting, pay attention to changes in water quality and bottom soil. Once water quality or bottom soil deterioration is found, deal with it promptly to avoid lotus death and reduced yield. In addition, weeds should be removed promptly during planting to avoid harming lotus growth. Spray herbicide once a month to suppress weed growth. Also, aquatic plants such as algae and water moss on the water surface should be removed promptly. When lotus grows 3-5 standing leaves, plow promptly once every half month, for 3-4 times in a row, until the rhizomes fill the pond.

II. When Does Lotus Bloom?

Lotus generally blooms in midsummer, with the flowering period from June to September. In early June, some lotus flowers are in full bloom. Flower colors vary among white, pink, deep red, light purple, yellow or intermediate colors. However, due to climate change in recent years, the flowering period may also change. In addition, lotus blooming generally begins around 3:00 a.m. First the outer petals gradually stretch open, and the inner petals at the top of the flower bud loosen along with them, and they do not close until around 9:00 a.m. Blooming during the day is also affected by temperature changes. After 8:00 a.m., when the temperature rises to 21°C, a small amount of blooming begins. As it continues to rise to 24-26°C, blooming gradually increases. When the temperature rises to the most suitable temperature for blooming, 28-30°C, the peak blooming of the day occurs.

Summary: The above is an introduction to lotus planting methods and when lotus blooms. Growers can refer to the above planting methods for cultivation and observe the flowering time. We hope it is helpful to those who need it!