How to prune pygmy water lily

Throughout the growing season as flowers fade and leaves deteriorate. Snip spent flower stems and yellowed leaves back to the crown with sharp small scissors; keep cuttings out of the water to avoid fouling the container.

As needed throughout the growing season. Nymphaea tetragona, a miniature species, needs no pruning beyond deadheading spent flowers and removing yellowing or decaying leaves. Its compact habit naturally suits small ponds and container water features and does not require shaping or cutting back. Removing dying material promptly keeps the water clean and the plant vigorous.

Snip spent flower stems and yellowed leaves back to the crown with sharp small scissors; keep cuttings out of the water to avoid fouling the container.