Deep water and water lily planting tips and placing water lilies

1.The large and average sized lilies need to be planted into large aquatic baskets in a heavy clay loam, but only at half their final depth to begin with. Gradually introduce them to deeper water as their leaves get established on the surface. Beware that generally, the cheaper lilies are, the more vigorous they are. But even the most vigorous types will need a feed of slow-release fertiliser or bone meal pellets to get them going. They can be planted at any time from late spring onwards, as long as there is strong growth from a strong plant. Weaker specimens need to be nurtured for planting later in the season.

2. Keep them away from fountains and waterfalls, as disturbed or flowing water upsets their growth.

3. Other deepwater babies are the amazing Aponogeton distachyos or water hawthorn and the various forms of Nuphar lutea or brandy bottle plant. (Owners of small ponds or clay-lined ponds beware of the latter.) The water fringe lily or Villarsia (Nymphoides peltata) is tolerant of virtually any level f water from 10-60cm (4-24ins).

A close view of the fragrant flower of the water hawthorn, Aponogeton distachyos.

Nuphar lutea or brandy bottle to some noses does actually smell of brandy, although many people gave it the name thinking that the shape of the seed head that looks like an ancient clay brandy bottle.

Nymphoides peltata or Villarsia.

Buying and placing water lilies

1. Do not accept freebies unless you know what it is and whether it is suitable for your pool. Also when buying, buy from a reputable source

2. Do not necessarily buy a plant that is flowering unless you need a confirmation of flower colour and size. Any flowers and flower buds will abort immediately it is planted in a new situation. (This also goes for any large mature leaves.) Look for a good healthy tuber that is well anchored, and that also shows strong growth from a healthy growing point.

3. Check plants for small insects or egg clusters before you buy them.

4. Submersing the plants to their final resting place should be a gradual process allowing the plants to slowly acclimatise. Start at 8-10 inches; raise it up on bricks for about a week and then if the plant seems to be gaining some momentum in vitality, lower it to the appropriate depth for that variety. If you would wish to establish some of the more vigorous lilies at greater depths than 18ins (450cm) and at the extreme end of their depth tolerance (perhaps at 3-4ft) then it will be best to lower the plants gradually over a period of 2 years.