Little Green Micro Lotus – Tuber

The Little Green Micro Lotus (Nymphaea ‘Little Green’) is a delightful and compact aquatic plant that brings the elegance of a traditional lotus to smaller spaces. Known for its vibrant green foliage and delicate, fragrant white flowers, this miniature lotus is the perfect addition to any water garden, pond, or container. Unlike larger lotus varieties, the Little Green Micro Lotus stays small and manageable, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space or those looking to add a unique, striking plant to their water feature.

Ideal for small ponds, water bowls, or container gardens, the Little Green Micro Lotus blooms profusely during the warmer months, offering a serene and peaceful aesthetic. Its glossy, rounded leaves float gracefully on the water’s surface, while the fragrant white flowers add a touch of beauty and elegance to your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, the Little Green Micro Lotus is an easy-to-care-for, low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and can add charm to any water garden or pond.

Key Features:

• Flower Color: Beautiful, fragrant white flowers that bloom above the water with subtle, delicate greenish hues at the base of the petals.
• Growth Habit: Compact growth, making it ideal for smaller ponds, water containers, or bowls. It typically reaches 8-12 inches in diameter, which is much smaller than traditional lotus varieties.
• Bloom Time: Blooms in summer and fall, with flowers lasting several days before new blooms emerge.
• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun and needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
• Size: Grows to about 8-12 inches in diameter, making it suitable for smaller water features or container gardens.
• Water Requirements: Thrives in shallow to moderately deep water, making it a perfect choice for containers, small ponds, or water gardens with depths of around 6-12 inches.
• Hardiness Zone: Ideal for USDA zones 4-11, this hardy plant can withstand colder temperatures and regrow each spring when kept in non-freezing conditions.

Care Instructions for Little Green Micro Lotus

Light: The Little Green Micro Lotus requires full sun for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and blooming. This sun-loving plant will produce its best flowers and lush foliage when placed in a sunny location. While it can tolerate partial shade, blooming may be reduced in low light conditions.

Watering: As an aquatic plant, the Little Green Micro Lotus thrives in water at all times. It prefers a water depth of 6-12 inches, making it suitable for ponds, water bowls, or container gardens. The roots should be submerged in water, and the water level should be maintained consistently. Ensure the water is free of chlorine and other chemicals, as these can harm the plant.

Soil: The Little Green Micro Lotus prefers nutrient-rich aquatic soil that provides good drainage. Use aquatic potting mix or pond soil in a heavy container or planting basket to help anchor the plant’s roots. Avoid using garden soil, as it can introduce contaminants into the water. The soil should remain submerged to a depth that supports the growth of the lotus.

Temperature: The Little Green Micro Lotus thrives in warm water temperatures, generally between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C). In colder climates, the lotus will die back in winter but will regrow the following spring if kept in non-freezing water. If you live in an area with cold winters, consider moving the plant to a greenhouse or indoors in a container to protect it from freezing temperatures.

Fertilization: Fertilize your Little Green Micro Lotus every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) using an aquatic fertilizer. These fertilizers are specially formulated to promote blooming and healthy growth in water lilies and lotuses. Avoid using granular fertilizers, as they can clog the soil and contaminate the water. Reduce fertilization in the cooler months when the plant is dormant.

Pruning: Regular pruning is not necessary for the Little Green Micro Lotus. However, you should remove any dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to maintain the plant’s aesthetic and to keep the water clean. You can also trim back any overgrown leaves if the plant becomes too large for its container or water feature. Be gentle when pruning to avoid damaging the delicate leaves and flowers.

Winter Care: In colder climates, where the water freezes, it’s best to bring the Little Green Micro Lotus indoors for the winter. Place it in a container of water and store it in a cool, bright location where temperatures remain above freezing. If you have a pond that doesn’t freeze, you can move the lotus to a deeper part of the pond to protect it from freezing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How deep should I plant my Little Green Micro Lotus in water?
A: The Little Green Micro Lotus thrives in water that is between 6 to 12 inches deep. This depth is ideal for allowing the roots to stay submerged while keeping the leaves and flowers above the water surface.

Q: Can I grow the Little Green Micro Lotus in a container?
A: Yes! The Little Green Micro Lotus is perfect for container gardening. Choose a large container with a water depth of 6-12 inches and fill it with aquatic soil to allow the lotus to grow. Just be sure to keep the water level consistent.

Q: Does the Little Green Micro Lotus need full sun?
A: Yes, the Little Green Micro Lotus requires full sun for 4-6 hours a day to bloom abundantly. The more sunlight it gets, the better its growth and flowering performance.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Little Green Micro Lotus?
A: Fertilize your Little Green Micro Lotus every 4-6 weeks during the growing season 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 Little Green Micro Lotus in the pond during winter?
A: In colder climates, the Little Green Micro Lotus will need protection during the winter. If your pond freezes, it’s best to bring the lotus indoors in a container of water or move it to a deeper part of the pond where the roots won’t freeze.

Q: Why isn’t my Little Green Micro Lotus blooming?
A: If your Little Green Micro Lotus isn’t blooming, it may not be getting enough direct sunlight. Ensure the plant receives 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 that you’re fertilizing regularly during the growing season.