Jamie Beyer, well-known Iowa water gardener, demonstrated techinques on water plant divisions to Central Iowa Water Garden Association members. His demonstration included a water lily and lotus. Healthy pond plants grow in a "happy*" environment, and eventually outgrow the container. Jamie's demonstration included how and where to divide these plants, tools and equipment to use to divide the plants, and containers and potting up the divisions for a healthy start. Shown in its tub is a very healthy water lily plant that has outgrown its container. Note that the black container is sitting inside a black plastic trash bag, to prevent moisture loss and to keep the light out. In fact, Jamie recommends over-wintering many water plants in this fashion. Just lift them from your pond , he says, in late fall before a freeze, cut off the top of the plant, place in the black trash bag, tie up and take it to your basement and store in a dark, cool corner. You might want to check the bags in February or so to see if they need any water, but usually they do very fine in this way. Jamie should know, he's had years of experience! A "happy" environment in ecology means plants and animals and environment are all in balance. |
