Choosing the right soil for tropical water lilies

Recently we’ve noticed that there has been a significant increase in the marketing for commercially prepared aquatic plant soil. While different companies are selling this product, the basis is that it’s ingredients are inert and natural and are kiln-fired.

Several years ago when I was just getting into this hobby, I happened to get a small bag of Schultz Aquatic Plant Soil from the local Home Depot. It made several promises but these were the best ones:

• 100% natural ceramic granules that are kiln-fired
• No peat or compost materials (will not cloud water)
• Holds oxygen and nutrients for aquatic plants to utilize
• Creates an environment for fish to lay eggs
• Neutral pH
• Hold plants firmly in place

At first glance, the product looked just like kitty litter! In short, both the marginal & bog plants as well as the tropical water lilies barely grew. In fact some failed to grow at all. Furthermore the product was very light weight and could barely hold the plants in place.

Our recommendation is to avoid these products altogether!

Selecting the right type of soil

Now what do you need to look for in a good soil? Tropical water lilies naturally grow in a loamy substrate. This soil is continually changing because things that were once living biodegrade to provide nutrients. Whats the next best thing? Well have a look in your backyard.

If you have clay, sand, or another heavy garden soil, then you are in luck! You should be concerned with using your local soil if you know that it is contaminated with products such as pesticides. If that is the case, then you can head to you local garden center and pick up “play sand” or “plain sand.” This is the same substrate that we use to cultivate our tropical water lilies. Even our wholesaler uses sand! We favor this substrate over others for the following reasons:

• Economical; a 50lb bag is $2 and change
• Free of contaminants
• Holds plants securely in place
• Reusable and allows for easy re-potting

If you plants aren’t growing so well, or you plan on re-potting, or your just planting new tropical water lilies try changing your soil and provide the appropriate amount of fertilizer and watch your plants flourish!

Filed under: Cultivation, Tropical water lilies