To successfully cultivate a lotus, select a container that accommodates its full-grown size. A sturdy container is essential to prevent the lotus from spreading its runners and overtaking your water garden. When contained properly, the lotus will provide a stunning visual display. For micro and bowl lotus varieties, choose a container with a diameter of 8 to 11 inches, while small and medium lotus thrive in containers ranging from 12 to 20 inches. A large lotus requires a more spacious environment, ideally between 20 and 48 inches in diameter.
Fill the chosen container with rich, heavy topsoil, leaving a few inches of space at the top, and avoid using regular potting soil, as it contains materials like perlite and vermiculite that can float and create a mess. Once the container is filled, add water to create a slurry of mud, then gently place the lotus tuber on top and cover it lightly with pea gravel to secure it until roots develop. Position the container in the water garden, ensuring that only a few inches of water cover the top. Remember to fertilize your lotus monthly with a quality aquatic fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
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