In anticipation of the Diwali festival, when preparations are made for worshipping the goddess Lakshmi, there is often a need for flowers, especially lotus flowers, which are considered very beloved by the goddess. However, due to high demand during the festive season, the price of fresh lotuses in stores increases significantly. If you are tired of worrying about buying lotuses during Diwali, you can try growing them yourself in your garden, yard, or on your roof.
Growing a lotus does not require a large pond or a special location. It can be successfully cultivated in a large basin or pot, provided you know the correct planting and care method described by the gardening expert.
If you are just starting to grow lotus at home, it is better to use a healthy rhizome instead of seeds. Lotus seeds have a rather hard outer shell, which can slow down the germination process, and this requires knowledge of the correct methodology. Using a high-quality and healthy rhizome avoids the initial seed germination process.
When purchasing a rhizome, you should ensure that it is not spoiled or rotten. It is important to handle it carefully, as damage to the growing tip of the rhizome can negatively affect plant growth.
The lotus plant is not grown like other trees and plants. You need to choose a wide and deep basin or a large pot capable of holding a large amount of water. It is crucial that there are no drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, as this will allow water to remain around the plant's roots.
Place the pot in a location where the plant will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient sunlight leads to slowed plant growth and reduced flowering. Therefore, a roof, yard, or sunny spot in the house are good options.
Lotus requires soil that does not dissolve in water. For this, heavy and clayey soil can be used. According to the gardener, to prepare the soil, you should mix soil and vermicompost in equal proportions.
After that, fill the pot or basin with the mixture, and then gently place the rhizome in the soil. Avoid pressing the rhizome too hard and monitor the integrity of its growing tip. Then, slowly add water to the pot so that the soil stays in place and does not damage the rhizome.
Nutrients are necessary for the growth and blooming of the lotus. Although fertilizers can be applied, they should not simply be thrown into the water. According to the gardener's method, the fertilizer should be wrapped in fabric and pressed about one to two inches beneath the soil surface. This ensures the gradual release of nutrients into the soil.
However, the amount of fertilizer should be determined based on the plant's age, the type of fertilizer used, and the season. Excessive fertilization can degrade water quality and harm the plant.
After October, temperatures begin to drop, which can slow down lotus growth. During this period, frequent fertilization is not required; feeding should only occur after assessing the plant's condition and the weather.
Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure that rotting leaves or debris from other plants do not accumulate in the pot. This prevents water contamination and maintains plant health.
If spots appear on the lotus leaves or any leaf begins to rot, it should be removed. Also, regularly clean fallen leaves and other debris from the pot to keep the water clean. Instead of completely changing the water unnecessarily, control its condition. If the water becomes heavily contaminated, it needs to be cleaned, keeping in mind that the rhizome should not shift. It is also important to monitor that stagnant water does not become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
