How to Buy Water Lilies
- 1). Decide which type of water lilies you want to buy. Water lilies are available in both tropical and hardy varieties. Hardy water lilies are available in many vibrant colors including one variety that starts out yellow and eventually turns copper. Hardy lilies are herbaceous perennials, grow to a 4- to 6-foot spread and flower at the end of May. Tropical water lilies are an exotic variety with a wonderful fragrance. Also perennials, lasting about three seasons, they grow to about the same size as hardy water lilies but have almost twice as many blooms. They typically start blooming in late summer.
- 2). Contact plant nurseries to find the type of water lilies you want. You can also search for online plant retailers that sell water lilies. Online retailers such as The Water Garden, LLC and Pond Megastore may have a better selection than your local nursery. To determine quality, see if the bottoms of the leaves are clear of pest spots, discoloration and chew marks. The leaves should not be yellow or wilted, and the lily should not be in full bloom.
- 3). Keep track of the selection and prices offered by nurseries and online plant retailers. Ask questions about price, selection, return policies and guarantees.
- 4). Purchase a fish-safe aquatic plant fertilizer with your water lilies. Fertilizer helps your water lilies bloom more often. When placed in the right type of environment and adequately cared for, the water lilies you buy should bloom three to seven times per day.
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