Water Lilies
Water Lilies are a great way to add vibrant colours to your pond as they come in a range of colours. They are aquatic plants which grow from the bottom of a pond, sending up large, round leaves, or 'pads', these help to shade your pond. Lilies can get quite big, but we also sell pygmy or miniature lilies that are suited to smaller ponds.
Lilies make a beautiful addition to any pond. The elegant flowers can be seen from June to September. Ideally 2 thirds of the ponds surface should be covered with lily leaves (or floating plants). The shade they provide lowers light levels, which in turn reduces algae growth. Lilies do not like water splashing on their leaves. They prefer still water and sunshine to help them flower and flourish.
Nymphaea alba, often called “White lily” is the only lily native to the UK.
Due to the seasonal nature of the plants, availability changes on a weekly basis. If what you require is not currently available, please check back soon as varieties are at their best at differing points of the year.
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How to Plant and Care for Water Lilies
How do I plant water lilies?
Planting water lilies begins with selecting the right container - typically a wide, shallow pot without drainage holes that can accommodate the plant correctly. Use an appropriate aquatic mix specifically designed for pond plants. When placing the lily in your pond or water feature, slowly lower it in and position it at a depth that matches the specific variety's requirements for healthy growth. Most water lilies thrive in still or slow-moving water with plenty of direct sunlight, so choose a location that provides these conditions for optimal growth and flowering.
How can I plant water lilies in a deep pond?
Planting water lilies in a deep pond requires strategic planning to ensure the plants receive adequate light and can establish themselves effectively. For ponds deeper than 45 centimetres, create raised platforms or use specially designed plant stands positioned at the appropriate depth. These platforms allow you to situate water lily containers at the optimal height, typically between 15 and 30 centimetres below the water surface. For particularly deep ponds, consider smaller or dwarf water lily varieties that can tolerate limited light and do well in slightly deeper water.
When do water lilies bloom?
Water lilies typically bloom from late spring and early summer through early autumn, with peak flowering during June, July, and August. The exact timing depends on the variety, water temperature, sunlight exposure, and general pond conditions. Hardy water lily varieties tend to start flowering earlier, while tropical varieties may bloom later and continue until September.
What do water lilies need to survive?
Water lilies require a carefully balanced environment to thrive. Key elements include:
- Abundant sunlight - ideally six to eight hours of direct sun daily to fuel photosynthesis and promote healthy growth.
- Water temperature - most varieties prefer consistent temperatures between 18-30°C.
- Nutrient-rich, relatively neutral water (pH 6.5-7.5) supplemented with specialised aquatic fertiliser tablets.
- Good water circulation to prevent stagnation for water lilies and other pond plants.
Do water lilies die back in winter?
Water lilies undergo a natural dormancy period during winter. Hardy varieties can survive temperatures down to -15°C, while tropical species require protection or indoor overwintering. Remove dead leaves, reduce fertilisation, and in freezing regions, move potted water lilies to deeper areas of the pond or bring them indoors to ensure survival through winter.