Growing Guide

Temperature

Start planting when the outdoor temperature remains consistently above 12°C (54°F) in spring. Bowl lotus grows best at 25–35°C (77–95°F). Temperatures above 40°C (104°F) may cause the plant to become dormant.

Sunlight

Bowl lotus requires plenty of direct sunlight to grow well and produce flowers. Place the container on a sunny windowsill, balcony, patio, rooftop, or in the garden where it receives at least 3 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun is ideal for healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Water

• During the early growth stage, keep the water depth at 3–5 cm (1.2–2 in) to help warm the water.
• After the plant is established, maintain a water depth of about 5 cm (2 in).
• Do not let the water exceed 10 cm (4 in) in depth.

Fertilizer

Beginners are not recommended to apply base fertilizer when planting.

Once the lotus produces upright leaves or fills the container with foliage, fertilizer may be applied according to the plant's condition and water quality.

Use 5–10 pellets of a balanced slow-release fertilizer about every 10 days. Smaller containers require less fertilizer, while larger containers may need more. Place the fertilizer in the center of the container or bury it in the soil. Do not place fertilizer directly on the leaves.

If the water becomes cloudy or has an unpleasant odor, it may indicate over-fertilization. Stop fertilizing immediately. If excessive fertilizer has been applied, replace the water to reduce fertilizer damage.

Some natural pond or garden soils already contain sufficient nutrients, so additional fertilizer may not be necessary.

Container

Choose a waterproof container with a wide opening.

For the best appearance, a container approximately 25 cm (10 in) in diameter and 10–15 cm (4–6 in) deep is recommended.

Soil

Use unfertilized natural soil, such as pond mud, river mud, paddy soil, or garden soil suitable for growing crops.

Do not use commercial potting soil or nutrient-rich flower potting mix.

Leave about 5 cm (2 in) of space for water in the container. Add the soil first, then add water and stir until it forms a smooth mud slurry before planting.