Planting a lotus in an aquarium typically involves first planting the tuber in a container and then submerging the container within the aquarium. Due to their size and growth habit, large lotus varieties are best suited for spacious tanks or pond-like aquarium setups.
Preparing for Planting
Before you begin, select a suitable container for your lotus. A wide, shallow, non-holed container is usually recommended to restrict the tuber's horizontal growth initially and keep the soil contained.
Choosing and Handling the Tuber
Selecting a healthy lotus tuber is crucial for success. The tuber should ideally be white to gray in color and be very firm to the touch. Hairy roots and new shoots will grow from either end. When you handle the tuber, GENTLY pick it up, as damaging the new shoots can quickly kill a lotus.
Planting in the Container
- Add soil into the lotus container until it is about 3" deep. Use a heavy clay-based soil or aquatic potting mix. Avoid light, peat-based mixes or those with added fertilizers, as these can float and cloud the aquarium water, potentially harming fish.
- Place the lotus tuber on top of the soil. Position it carefully so that the growing tip (the end with the new shoots) is pointing upwards or horizontally across the soil surface, depending on the container shape. Do not bury the growing tip deeply.
- Gently cover the tuber with a thin layer of soil, leaving the growing tip exposed.
- Add a layer of clean gravel or sand (about 1-2 inches) on top of the soil. This cap helps keep the soil contained in the pot and prevents it from muddying the aquarium water.
- Slowly add water to the container until it is just covering the soil surface.
Placing the Container in the Aquarium
Once the lotus is planted in its container, you can place the container in the aquarium.
- Submergence: Submerge the entire container into the aquarium water. Ensure the water level in the aquarium covers the top of the container.
- Lighting: Lotuses require strong light. Ensure the aquarium has adequate lighting to support their growth.
- Water Parameters: Be mindful of the aquarium's water parameters, especially if fish are present. While the soil is capped, there is still a risk of nutrients leaching into the water, which can affect fish health and contribute to algae blooms. Large lotus plants can also significantly consume nutrients.
Planting in a container makes it easier to manage the lotus's growth and prevents its roots from spreading uncontrollably within the aquarium's substrate. It also allows for easier removal if maintenance is required.
