Troubleshooting
Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Rubra' problems — and how to fix them
Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Rubra' (Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Rubra') 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.
Poor red colouring
Insufficient sun mutes the red tones. Give it the brightest, most open position in the pond or on the patio to develop full flower colour.
Aphids on buds and pads
Waterlily aphids disfigure foliage and flowers. Spray them off with water for fish to eat or submerge affected leaves rather than using insecticides near water.
Crown rot from deep planting
Set too deep, the small crown can rot. Keep water no deeper than about 40 cm over the soil and lift the basket on supports if needed.
Declining vigour
A congested rhizome reduces flowering after a few years. Lift and divide in spring, replanting a strong growing tip in fresh aquatic loam.
Prevent nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' problems before they start
Most nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' in general rather than its problems? Read the full nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Rubra' problems — FAQ
Why is my nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' poor red colouring?
Insufficient sun mutes the red tones. Give it the brightest, most open position in the pond or on the patio to develop full flower colour.
Why is my nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' aphids on buds and pads?
Waterlily aphids disfigure foliage and flowers. Spray them off with water for fish to eat or submerge affected leaves rather than using insecticides near water.
Why is my nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' crown rot from deep planting?
Set too deep, the small crown can rot. Keep water no deeper than about 40 cm over the soil and lift the basket on supports if needed.
Why is my nymphaea 'pygmaea rubra' declining vigour?
A congested rhizome reduces flowering after a few years. Lift and divide in spring, replanting a strong growing tip in fresh aquatic loam.