First Fall Micro Lotus – Tuber

The First Fall Micro Lotus (Nymphaea ‘First Fall’) is a stunning aquatic plant that adds a touch of elegance and tranquility to any water garden or pond. This miniature lotus variety is known for its vibrant white flowers, which bloom gracefully above the water’s surface, offering a bright, cheerful contrast to the lush green foliage. Perfect for smaller water features like small ponds, water bowls, or containers, the First Fall Micro Lotus is a compact yet striking addition to your garden.

Despite its small size, the First Fall Micro Lotus is a powerhouse of beauty, producing abundant, fragrant flowers that last for several days, with blooms appearing in spring, summer, and fall. The rounded, green leaves float elegantly on the water, providing both visual interest and a natural backdrop to the flowers. Easy to care for, this hardy, low-maintenance aquatic plant thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners alike.

Key Features:

• Flower Color: Bright, white blooms with a subtle fragrance, perfect for adding a cheerful pop of color to your water feature.
• Growth Habit: Compact growth, ideal for smaller ponds, water gardens, or containers. Grows to about 8-12 inches in diameter, making it perfect for tight spaces.
• Bloom Time: Blooms from spring to fall, with flowers lasting up to several days each, creating a continuous display of color throughout the warmer months.
• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun for at least 4-6 hours a day to thrive and produce vibrant blooms.
• Size: Compact in size, growing to around 8-12 inches in diameter, suitable for smaller water features or containers.
• Water Requirements: Thrives in shallow to moderately deep water, making it an ideal choice for small ponds or water containers with depths of around 6-12 inches.
• Hardiness Zone: Suitable for USDA zones 4-11, this plant is hardy enough to withstand cooler temperatures when properly cared for.

Care Instructions for First Fall Micro Lotus

Light: The First Fall Micro Lotus requires full sun for 4-6 hours per day to bloom and grow optimally. A sunny spot is essential to encourage vibrant yellow flowers. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy, and blooming will be reduced.

Watering: Being an aquatic plant, the First Fall Micro Lotus needs to remain submerged in water at all times. It grows best in shallow to moderately deep water, with a recommended depth of 6-12 inches. Keep the water level consistent to prevent the roots from drying out. Avoid water that contains chlorine or other harmful chemicals, as they can damage the plant.

Soil: Use aquatic soil or pond-specific planting mix, as regular garden soil can introduce harmful chemicals into the water. Choose a heavy planting basket or container to help anchor the plant’s roots. Avoid using regular soil, as it can be too dense and may cause the water to become murky.

Temperature: The First Fall Micro Lotus prefers warm water temperatures, ideally between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C). In colder regions, where freezing occurs, bring the plant indoors or to a deeper part of the pond where it can be protected from the cold.

Fertilization: For optimal growth and blooming, feed your First Fall Micro Lotus with an aquatic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and vibrant flowers. Use a liquid or slow-release fertilizer designed for aquatic plants to avoid polluting the water.

Pruning: Pruning is minimal but necessary to keep the plant healthy. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves or spent flowers to maintain the plant’s aesthetic and prevent them from decomposing in the water. You may also trim back any overly large leaves to keep the plant from outgrowing its container or pond space.

Winter Care: In regions where the water freezes, it’s best to move the First Fall Micro Lotus to a deeper section of the pond or bring it indoors for the winter. Place the plant in a container of water and store it in a cool, bright location to prevent freezing. In warmer climates, it can be left in the pond year-round, as long as the roots are not exposed to freezing temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How deep should I plant my First Fall Micro Lotus in water?
A: The First Fall Micro Lotus grows best in shallow to moderately deep water, typically with a water depth of 6-12 inches. Ensure that the roots are submerged while the leaves and flowers remain above the water surface.

Q: Can I grow the First Fall Micro Lotus in a container?
A: Yes! The First Fall Micro Lotus is perfect for container gardening. Choose a large, heavy container with a water depth of 6-12 inches and fill it with aquatic soil. This is ideal for creating a portable water feature that can be moved around as needed.

Q: Does the First Fall Micro Lotus need full sun?
A: Yes, the First Fall Micro Lotus requires full sun for 4-6 hours per day. A sunny location is essential for promoting vibrant blooms. If it receives insufficient sunlight, it may not bloom as profusely.

Q: How often should I fertilize my First Fall Micro Lotus?
A: Fertilize your First Fall Micro Lotus every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) with an aquatic fertilizer. This will support the plant’s blooming and overall health. Avoid fertilizing during the winter when the plant is dormant.

Q: Can I leave my First Fall Micro Lotus in the pond during winter?
A: If you live in a region with freezing temperatures, it’s best to either move the First Fall Micro Lotus to a deeper section of the pond or bring it indoors to a cool, bright location. The plant can be left outdoors in milder climates, but its roots should be protected from freezing.

Q: Why isn’t my First Fall Micro Lotus blooming?
A: If your First Fall Micro Lotus isn’t blooming, it could be due to insufficient sunlight. Ensure the plant is receiving at least 4-6 hours of full sun each day. Also, check that the water temperature is warm enough (around 65°F to 85°F), and ensure you’re providing proper fertilization during the growing season.