Troubleshooting
Blue Water Lily problems — and how to fix them
Blue Water Lily (Nymphaea colorata) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Cold water shock
Water temperatures below 18°C stunt growth and prevent flowering. Do not place outdoor until water has warmed in late spring.
Tuber rot over winter
If overwintering, remove tubers from the water before the first frost, dry slightly, and store in barely moist sand at 15-18°C.
Lack of blooms
Insufficient sun or water too cool are the most frequent causes. Ensure a sunny site and warm water temperatures.
Waterlily aphids
Check pads regularly. Spray pests into the water where fish will consume them, or remove affected pads.
Algae competition
Warm water temperatures also favour algae. Ensure sufficient floating leaf coverage (50-60% of surface) to shade the water.
Prevent blue water lily problems before they start
Most blue water lily issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Blue Water Lily problems — FAQ
Why is my blue water lily cold water shock?
Water temperatures below 18°C stunt growth and prevent flowering. Do not place outdoor until water has warmed in late spring.
Why is my blue water lily tuber rot over winter?
If overwintering, remove tubers from the water before the first frost, dry slightly, and store in barely moist sand at 15-18°C.
Why is my blue water lily lack of blooms?
Insufficient sun or water too cool are the most frequent causes. Ensure a sunny site and warm water temperatures.
Why is my blue water lily waterlily aphids?
Check pads regularly. Spray pests into the water where fish will consume them, or remove affected pads.
Why is my blue water lily algae competition?
Warm water temperatures also favour algae. Ensure sufficient floating leaf coverage (50-60% of surface) to shade the water.