Indian Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) 4 seeds

Indian Lotus - Nelumbo nucifera - 4 Seeds

Lotus is a fascinating aquatic plant. It originates from Asia and America, where the two most well-known lotus species come from. The large pinkish flowers are a symbol of beauty.

This is an undemanding plant that adapts well even to our temperate climate. However, it is not frost-resistant and generally dislikes cold, so it's necessary to maintain temperatures above freezing point. It's suitable for winter gardens, greenhouses, and ponds. However, it must be relocated from ponds for the winter.

For indoor cultivation, it's best placed on the south side near a window. The container depth should be at least 25 cm.

How to Grow Lotus

First, scarify the lotus seeds by filing them down, then soak them for 24 hours in water at approximately 20°C. Within 24 hours, the seeds should double in size; if this doesn't happen, file them down more.

The plant germinates and grows faster at water temperatures of 25-27°C.

After the first leaf develops, it's advisable to transplant the lotus. Ideal substrates include muddy substrate or aquarium gravel. The water level should be at least 25 cm deep.

It overwinters at temperatures above 6°C. The plant should be placed in the sunniest location possible. The south side of the house or apartment is ideal.



Photo sources:
Author: Peripitus – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4095376
By T.Voekler - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8142220
By Romain Guy from Lyon, France - Lotus flower, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1839559
By RebexArt - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25826126