The lotus flower, also known as the "arrow" due to its stems and leaves that resemble an arrow shape, originates from Mexico. It belongs to the cactus family but is often mistaken for a lily due to its long-lasting blooms. This plant thrives in warm, humid, and sunny conditions, tolerating dryness but not cold temperatures. It dislikes strong sunlight during summer and prefers well-drained, acidic sandy soil that is loose and fertile. Watering should be done carefully—only when the soil is dry, to avoid root rot.
From April to June, the lotus produces vibrant flowers in shades of crimson, pink, white, and yellow. The blossoms are striking and colorful, and each flower typically lasts 4 to 5 days. During blooming, it's best to place the plant in partial shade to prolong its beauty.
**Cultivation and Care**
Spring is the main growing season for the lotus. Ensure it gets plenty of light and regular fertilization. Apply nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers every 10 to 15 days to support strong growth. Water only when the soil feels dry, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot. By April, flower buds begin to form on the edges of the upper parts of the fleshy leaves and will bloom within about two weeks. If the plant is weak or undernourished at this time, it may fail to bloom or lose buds prematurely. To avoid this, consider applying a quick-acting phosphate fertilizer before flowering. Also, remove excess side and base buds, and prune weak branches to conserve nutrients and promote healthier foliage and flower development.
After the early summer bloom in May or June, the plant enters a vigorous growth phase. Apply nitrogen-rich top dressing once or twice to encourage new growth and more flower buds. If you want to increase the number of stems, ensure the buds have enough time to grow to the desired height. If they don't develop properly, don’t worry—just leave them as is to avoid deformed, gourd-shaped stems that can affect the plant’s appearance. In midsummer, when temperatures rise, the lotus enters a semi-dormant state. Move it to a cool, shaded area, stop fertilizing, and water sparingly to keep the soil slightly dry. Avoid excessive shade, as some sunlight is still needed. You can place it near a window for 3–4 hours daily, but protect it from direct midday sun to prevent leaf burn.
In autumn, the plant continues to grow new leaves, which gradually mature. Management is similar to spring and early summer. Apply 2–3 top dressings with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, and extend the duration of light exposure to support healthy growth.
After the first frost, as temperatures drop, move the plant indoors to protect it from freezing. Place it in a sunny indoor location and maintain a temperature around 8°C. Stop fertilizing and reduce watering, keeping the soil dry. Excess moisture can cause leaf wilting and root rot. From mid-March to early April, gradually increase ventilation time as temperatures rise, preparing the plant for outdoor conditions later.
Every one to two years, repot the lotus in spring or autumn. When repotting, trim some old roots and replace the soil with a mix of humus, garden soil, sand, and organic fertilizer. Add a layer of base fertilizer to support future growth.
**Propagation Methods**
The lotus can be propagated through cuttings, which can be done in spring, summer, or autumn. Select a strong, two-year-old shoot and cut it into 8–10 cm sections. Allow the cut ends to dry for 2–3 days before planting them in shallow containers filled with sandy soil. Plant the cuttings one-third of their length into the soil. Water moderately, keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Place the container in a partially shaded area. Roots usually appear within a month, and with proper care, the plant will begin blooming within 2–3 years.
**Pest and Disease Control**
Common issues include stem rot, brown spot, and root nematodes. To treat these, use a 50% carbendazim solution diluted 1000 times. For root nematodes, apply an 80% dibromochlorohydrin solution diluted 1000 times. Poor ventilation can lead to infestations of aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Use a 50% emulsifiable concentrate of pine oil diluted 1000 times to control these pests effectively. Regular monitoring and timely treatment are essential to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
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