Growing and caring a Pink Lotus plant
The Pink Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera 'Rosea') is more than just a plant; it's a symbol of purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening. Its magnificent, bowl-shaped blossoms, ranging from soft blush to vibrant fuchsia, unfurl above broad, waxy leaves, transforming any pond or water feature into an oasis of tranquility.
While their majestic appearance might suggest complexity, growing these captivating aquatic beauties is surprisingly rewarding with the right care.
To begin your lotus journey, start with a healthy rhizome – the plant's underground stem. Choose a wide, shallow, non-draining container, at least 18-24 inches in diameter for a medium variety, to accommodate its extensive root system.
Fill it with a heavy, clay-based soil, free from perlite or peat that would float. Gently nestle the rhizome into the soil, ensuring the growing tips are exposed and point slightly upwards. Cover the rhizome barely with soil, then slowly add water until it's a few inches above the soil surface.
Sunlight is paramount. Pink Lotuses demand a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and bloom prolifically. Position your container in the sunniest spot available, ensuring the water remains still and calm.
Maintain a consistent water level, topping up as needed to counteract evaporation, keeping 4-12 inches of water above the soil surface depending on the plant's maturity.
Once growth begins, typically in late spring, feeding is essential. Use specially formulated aquatic plant fertilizer tablets, pushing them deep into the soil away from the rhizome every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season.
Remove any yellowing leaves or spent flowers by cutting their stems underwater to prevent rot. As autumn approaches, your lotus will enter dormancy; leaves will yellow and die back. In freezing climates, move the container to deeper water or a frost-free location to protect the rhizome.
With patience and consistent attention, your Pink Lotus will reward you with a breathtaking display, a living testament to nature's enduring elegance.
I am one of the people who love plants the most especially flowers but they need a lot of water