How to Care for Water Lilies in Summer?

Water lilies, also known as water lily or calla lily, are beautiful flowers that bloom in spring and autumn, with exceptionally long blooming periods. They are excellent potted plants for decorating living rooms and study rooms. So, how should water lilies be cared for in summer? Let's find out together.

How to Care for Water Lilies in Summer?

1. Control Watering: During the hot summer months, water lilies enter a dormant period. During this time, their need for water and nutrients decreases significantly. Avoid overwatering them, as it can disrupt their normal dormancy. Also, ensure they are sheltered from heavy rains. You can regularly spray their leaves with water to maintain necessary humidity.

2. Stop Fertilization: Summer is the dormant season for water lilies, and their nutrient requirements are greatly reduced. Applying fertilizer during this time can easily lead to root burning. Therefore, it's best to stop fertilizing them. You can apply a phosphorus-potassium fertilizer once before the onset of summer.

3. Clean Up Dead Leaves: During summer, water lilies may shed some yellow or dead leaves. This is a normal metabolic phenomenon. Simply clean up the fallen leaves promptly.

4. Enhance Ventilation: High temperatures and humidity in summer can be detrimental to water lilies if they are kept in poorly ventilated areas for long periods. Ensure your water lilies are placed in well-ventilated areas.

5. Provide Adequate Shade: The intense summer sunlight can be harmful to dormant water lilies. Use diffused light to care for them. You can move the plants to partially shaded areas or use shading nets for appropriate protection.

6. Pest and Disease Control: In summer, with high temperatures and frequent rainfall, water lilies are susceptible to pests and diseases. Timely prevention and control are essential. You can spray a diluted solution of carbendazim once a week as a preventive measure. Repeat the spray about three times.

Above are the guidelines on how to care for water lilies in summer. Many people propagate water lilies in summer, usually through division. However, it's important not to divide water lilies during periods of high temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Can I plant water lilies outdoors during summer?

• A: Yes, you can plant water lilies outdoors during summer. However, make sure they are placed in a shaded area with sufficient ventilation to avoid heat stress.

• Q: How often should I water my water lilies in summer?

• A: During the summer months, water lilies enter a dormant period, so their water requirements decrease. Water them sparingly, keeping the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged.

• Q: Are water lilies prone to any specific diseases in summer?

• A: In summer, water lilies are susceptible to diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure proper ventilation and avoid overwatering.

• Q: Can I use chemical pesticides to control pests on water lilies?

• A: While chemical pesticides can be effective in controlling pests on water lilies, it's important to use them judiciously to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators. Consider using organic or biological pest control methods as alternatives.

• Q: How can I encourage blooming in water lilies during summer?

• A: To encourage blooming in water lilies during summer, ensure they receive adequate sunlight (but not direct sunlight), maintain proper water levels, and provide balanced fertilization.