Growing lotus at home feels like bringing a slice of ancient Asia right to your balcony or pond. Those pretty pink blooms emerge from muddy waters but are pure symbols of purity and calm. Although the lotus originally belongs to warm puddles across India and beyond, its sacred nature has captivated cultures for millennia as a symbol of resilience, dying in winter only to bloom again in the coming spring.
Although growing them can seem difficult, with some careful steps and regular care, lotus can also thrive in pots. Perfect for terrace gardens or aquariums, they also help purify water. Here are some simple steps to grow lotus on a balcony and a terrace.
What You'll Need
Take a big pot around 24 inches wide and 12 inches deep, with no drain holes. You will also need lotus seeds, clay-rich soil or pond mud, sand, a sharp knife, a small cup, and warm water. Spread a 3 to 5 inch layer of soil mix at the base. Place the pot in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, with temperatures between 75 and 87 degrees Fahrenheit being most important for proper growth.
Prep the Tough Lotus Seeds
Lotus seeds have rock-hard coats that keep them dormant. Begin by filing or nicking one end gently until creamy white shows through, but be careful not to cut too deep. Soak the seeds in warm water in a cup placed on a sunny windowsill. Change the water daily if it becomes cloudy. Sprouts will appear in 3 to 7 days as small green tips emerge.
Start Sprouts in Water
Once the seeds have sprouted and developed stems at least 4 inches long, move them to a shallow bowl with 2 inches of warm water over 1 to 2 inches of soil mix. Let the roots grab the soil; the first leaves will appear soon. Change the water frequently. When the leaves become hand-sized and the tubers are strong, usually after 2 to 3 weeks, they are ready for the big pot. Patience is key throughout this process.
Plant in the Big Pot
Put 3 to 5 inches of clay soil and sand mix at the bottom of the pot. Gently push the tuber 2 inches deep into the soil. Add warm water to just cover the leaves slightly. As leaves grow taller, even those sticking above the water, slowly add more water until it reaches 6 to 8 inches deep. Top up daily to account for evaporation. Add fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
The Flowers Bloom Next Year
In the first year, give the lotus plenty of sun and warmth, and cover the pot if necessary to prevent algae. Trim off dead leaves regularly. Pink, sweet-smelling flowers will appear in the second year. For winter, keep the tubers in the pot submerged in water or mud. Divide them in spring to grow more plants. In India, monsoon rains help them grow large, so enjoy the peace that lotus brings.
