Nymphaea Fabiola - Water Lily

Hardy water lilies can withstand the harshness of winter if the depth of the pond is at least 50 cm (20 in). They should be planted from March to June at a depth of 30 to 80 cm (12 to 32 in), except for dwarf water lilies, for which 20 cm (8 in) will suffice, and small vine-plants whose rhizomes should initially be submerged only 10 cm (4 in) deep, increasing the depth as the plants grow. Plant the rhizomes in good, stone-free garden soil. (Never use potting soil, as it is too rich and promotes the growth of algae.) Give them the sunniest spot in the water feature. Space each rhizome at least 1.5 m (5 ft) apart and plant them by pushing them vertically into the soil up to the collar.

In the case of a natural water feature (pond or lake), make sure the water level remains fairly stable and that the water is neither too acidic nor too alkaline (desirable pH between 6.5 and 7.5). Rhizomes can be planted in a wicker basket or a fine mesh basket that can be sunk in the desired location. For classic hardy water lilies, use a pot with a diameter of 40 cm (16 in) (wider than it is tall). For shallow ponds, a bowl-like planting is possible, but it will be necessary to overwinter the rhizomes in damp sand protected from frost. If the bottom is muddy, simply attach a stone to the rhizome and throw the whole thing to the desired location.

Never leave Nymphaea rhizomes exposed to the sun or air, in order to prevent them from drying out; plant them immediately upon receipt or purchase. If you have fish in your pond, it is advisable to spread a layer of coarse gravel on the surface of the potted plant to discourage them from digging in the soil and thus dirtying the water. The development of water lilies will be optimal if they are planted in containers adapted for their growth.

Water lilies are heavy feeders: apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser when planting, and then each year at the beginning of the growing season (for example: Osmocote 10-11-18-2 with a duration of 5-6 months). During the summer, remove excessive leaves that emerge in the centre of the clump to keep only the strongest ones. Also remove yellowed or stained leaves, as well as aquatic weeds that emerge from the surface.