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Old 27-08-2003, 04:33 AM
bmuller
 
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Default wintering tropical lilies

It is attached to the house, and during sunny days doesn't need to be heated
at all. In fact, it adds lots of heat to the house. But, on cloudy days, I
let it get down to about 55-60 degrees. The air just above the water is
almost as warm as the water, however. I grow mainly orchid cactus which
likes cool winters. That is why I insulate the sides and bottom of the horse
trough. I do have quite an evaporation problem, but frequent filling solves
the problem. Twice a winter I drain the trough and refill it to keep mineral
buildup down. Also helps humidify the house! :-)

"dkat" wrote in message
...
How warm do you have to keep your greenhouse?

"bmuller" wrote in message
s.com...

"Greg Salata" wrote in message
...
I am considering a tropical water lily. Any suggestions on how to

winter
them in the midwest?

Thanks

I live in Michigan. I have a horse trough in my greenhouse. (about 6 ft
long, 2 ft wide, and 18 inches high) I use a couple of fish tank

heaters
to keep the horse trough water at 75 degrees (I wrap bubblewrap around

the
trough for insulation) and immerse the tubs with the lillies in the

trough.
They form new leaves and seem to thrive, but do not bloom, probably

because
they don't get enough light and warmth. The main danger is a tendency to

put
them out too early in spring. If the pond water is cooler than 75 when

they
go out in spring, they will be severely set back.

I have done this for about 15 years, and rarely lose a plant.