Lotus Plant

Ranging in size from 18 to 60 inches tall, there are many varieties available. With the beautiful array of colors, they are a beautiful addition to any pond.

The flowers and many leaves will float on the surface of the water. As they open in the morning, their fragrance permeates the air.

Given the proper location and maintenance the lotus will produce magnificent late summer blooms.

Growing Lotus Plants

Lotus plants are aquatic perennials that require a minimum of six hours of sunlight for flowering, and prefer still water.

Most lotuses are hardy in zones five through ten, but check individual varieties. Choose a size that is appropriate to your pond area.

For best results, use tubers that have sprouted roots and leaves. If they have not sprouted, float the tuber in pond water for two weeks in a warm location to encourage sprouting.

To contain the runners that the plant will produce throughout the growing season, use a large, deep container. Fill it with amended soil and add about two inches of sand to the top.

If you have pond fish, add an additional two inches of lava rock to keep the fish from disturbing the plant.

Place the pot six to twelve inches below the surface of the water and put the tuber on top, slightly digging it into the sand. It will find its way from there.

Care and Maintenance of Lotus Plants

Use care when fertilizing the lotus as too much fertilizer can burn the leaves. An established plant only needs to be fed every three to four weeks during the growing season.

Remove any decaying leaves and spent flowers. If the pond depth is below the freeze line, cut off yellowed foliage late in the fall and lower the plant to the deepest part of the pond until spring.

If you live in a colder climate, you may want to remove the plant after it dies down in fall. Store it dry in living sphagnum moss to prevent rotting and keep in a cool location.

Lotus in Buddhism

One of the eight auspicious signs of Buddhism, the lotus symbolizes the journey of the human spirit.

Growing from the mud and floating clean on the surface, it represents purity.

The open flower represents enlightenment, while a closed bud signifies potential for enlightenment.

The stem represents raising the mind out of our worldly existence.

The flowers, depending on their color, have various meanings.

White flowers represent purity of mind and spiritual perfection, red represents purity of heart, and blue signifies wisdom.

Pink is associated with the Buddha himself, and is the supreme lotus.

With its rich symbolism and beauty, the lotus plant adds more to the water garden than just its magnificent flowers and fragrance.

It brings an awareness of the potential of the human spirit. For this reason, if you have a pond in your garden, it is well worth the extra effort to grow this beautiful plant.