The lotus plant, popular for its stunning beauty and rich cultural importance, provides both visual attractiveness and useful advantages. Growing them turns any area into a peaceful haven, whether it is a bright pond or a soothing water garden. The fundamentals of cultivating and tending to lotus plants will be covered in this blog. From ideal growth environments, and soil requirements to efficient management strategies.
Learn how to care for these lovely flowers and experience their ageless charm in your own land, regardless of your level of gardening experience.
Types of Lotus Plants
The American lotus and the Indian lotus are the two primary varieties of lotus that exist in India. With its pink or white petals, the most popular variety of lotus is Nelumbo nucifera, or Indian lotus. Alternatively, pale yellow flowers appear on the American lotus, or Nelumbo lutea. Growing in lakes, ponds, and leisurely-moving rivers are both varieties. Furthermore, warm temperatures are essential for their development and cultivation, and India is a perfect location for them.
Climate Conditions
Tropical areas with high temperatures are good for Lotus plant growth. For them to flourish, temperatures between 20°C and 35°C are necessary. They also need six hours or more of direct sunshine every day.
High-humidity environments are perfect for their growth. In addition, lotus plants require shallow, quiet water, such as that found in ponds and gently flowing rivers. Extremely dry or cold temperatures are not suitable for their survival. However, with adequate care, they may adapt to a variety of circumstances, resulting in effective cultivation.
Soil Requirements
Rich, loamy soil is necessary for lotus plants to flourish. The soil need to be dense and hold onto moisture. Its clayey texture helps in maintaining the stability of the roots. In addition, the soil needs a lot of organic matter to provide nutrients.
Lotus plants like pH values between 6.5 to 7.5, which are slightly acidic to neutral. Soils that are stony or sandy should never be used since they do not retain water well. Overall, frequent application of fertiliser promotes robust development and profusion of flowers.
Land Preparation
The first step in preparing land for lotus cultivation is to remove any weeds and waste. Then, till the ground is 6 to 8 inches below the surface. For this technique, using a 4-feet rotavator is quite beneficial.
The 4-feet rotavator price is reasonable, making it an excellent investment for farmers. Soil clumps are readily broken up by this rotavator, guaranteeing a fine and equal texture. Furthermore, it lowers labour expenses and saves time. Enhancing soil aeration and water retention—two factors crucial to the healthy growth of lotuses—can be done using a rotavator. Stronger plants and higher yields are the results of proper ground preparation.
Planting
Before planting lotus, immerse the seeds in warm water for two to three days. They sprout more quickly as a result. Afterwards, sow the sprouting seeds in a land that includes loam soil. After that, submerge the container—roughly 6 to 12 inches deep—in shallow water.
To promote healthy development, make sure the water is clean and still. As an alternative, you can immediately sow lotus tubers in muddy soil. To allow them to grow, always separate the plants two to three feet apart.
Irrigation
Maintain the water level 6–12 inches above the ground while irrigating lotus plants. To encourage healthy development, keep the water clean and motionless at all times. To keep the water from drying out, be sure you refill it frequently.
Regularly check the water levels in hot areas and add extra as necessary. Moreover, stay away from using chlorinated water as it might damage plants. Lastly, to minimise water stagnation, make sure that sufficient drainage is in place. In summary, for lotus plants to remain healthy and flourish, proper watering is crucial.
Pest Management
Checking plants for damage or insects on a regular basis will help control pests in lotus farming. To get rid of pests like caterpillars and aphids, use organic insecticides. Introduce natural predators to consume dangerous insects as well, such as ladybirds.
To lessen pest habitats, remove trash and dead leaves. Additionally, maintain clean water to avoid mosquito larvae. Crop rotation is a good way to prevent pest accumulation. By preventing serious infestations and ensuring healthy lotus development, proper pest management keeps your plants robust.
Harvesting
First, you must wait for the seeds to grow or the blooms to fully blossom before harvesting lotus. Then, carefully cut the blooms with long stems in the morning. When the pods on the seeds turn brown, remove them. Use clean instruments as well to avoid disease and damage to plants. Harvest the roots of lotuses in early autumn or late summer.
To pull the roots, carefully dig all around the plant. Take care when handling the harvested portions to prevent bruises. Harvesting with care guarantees the highest-quality crops.
Conclusion
To sum up, growing lotuses is fulfilling and rewarding. You can guarantee a successful harvest by employing the appropriate methods, such as utilising a 4-feet rotavator. Remember that the 4 feet rotavator price in India is relatively inexpensive, making it a useful tool for farmers. Colourful, beautiful lotus plants are the result of proper planting, watering, and pest management techniques.
You may design a lovely and fruitful lotus field with careful planning and the appropriate supplies. Appreciate the procedure and the gorgeous effects these tasteful flowers provide for your environment.
