In order to cultivate lotus flowers, you need to consider certain factors like selecting the appropriate area, soil, and adequate care. Here, we are going to guide you through the steps to successfully grow your own lotus flowers.
1. Choose a suitable location
The lotus flower needs lots of sunshine, so choose an area where it receives at least 8 hours of sunlight every day. Additionally, the area you choose should have enough space where the plant can grow and its roots can spread. The place you choose can either be a pool, large pond, or any other large container. If you’re planning to use a container, make sure that it is at least 24 inches wide and has a depth of at least 12 inches.
2. Gather lotus seeds
You can gather lotus seeds from a local nursery or by purchasing them online. The lotus seeds are commonly sold in a dry form, so in order for them to grow, they should be soaked in water for a few hours before planting. Once the seeds have softened, you can plant them in the soil.
3. Prepare the soil
The lotus plant thrives in a muddy soil. So, before planting the seeds, mix some clay with sand and compost, and moisten the soil. This will improve the soil consistency and provide the plants with enough nutrients to grow.
4. Planting
Plant the lotus seeds by placing them on top of the prepared soil, and gently press the seeds into the soil. If you’re using a container, place the seeds about an inch apart to allow room for the plants to grow. Remember that within six weeks, the lotus will sprout leaves.
5. Fertilizing
Lotus plant needs adequate fertilization to aid in their growth. You can use slow-release fertilizer pellets every two weeks, or liquid fertilizer weekly. Both of these methods work well in providing the plant with the necessary nutrients.
6. Maintenance
Weeds can be harmful to the lotus plant. So, you need to remove them as soon as you spot them. Additionally, regularly check for any dead leaves or rotten blooms, and remove them. This helps to reduce the risk of pest infestation, which can cause the plant to die.
7. Watering
Make sure that your lotus plant receives enough water each day, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Water the plant on a daily basis to keep the soil moist but not too saturated. If you’re using a container, fill the container with water up to about half the height of the container.
8. Harvesting
The lotus flower blooms in the summer and can continue to bloom for several weeks. Once the flower blooms, it will emit a sweet fragrance that attracts insects. You can view the beautiful lotus, cut their stems off, and place them in a vase.
In conclusion, cultivating lotus flowers requires patience and consistent maintenance. But the results are worth it – the blooming lotus is a symbol of purity, and it can provide a serene atmosphere in any garden or home. The above-mentioned tips will help you to cultivate lotus flowers successfully.