The lotus is a remarkable aquatic plant that captivates with its large, vibrant flowers and broad, heart-shaped leaves. It grows in still, shallow waters where its roots anchor in mud while its stunning blooms rise above the surface. The flowers are pink, white, or blue in colour and enhance any pond or water garden with their beauty.

Beyond its visual appeal, the lotus holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in many traditions, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. Apart from these, it has ornamental value; its different parts are used for medicinal purposes. From roots to seeds, the lotus is versatile and cherished, offering numerous uses in both aesthetic and practical applications.

If you are considering cultivating lotus, our guide will help you with essential information and tips. With the right knowledge and care, you can enjoy the many benefits of this remarkable plant. Also, you can add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

5 Lotus-Growing States in India:

Lotus cultivation in India is concentrated in certain key states with better aquatic environments. Major lotus-producing states include:

• West Bengal

• Bihar

• Uttar Pradesh

• Kerala

• Tamil Nadu

Medicinal Benefits of Lotus Flower:

The lotus flower is celebrated for its numerous medicinal benefits, contributing to both traditional and modern health practices. Some of its medicinal benefits include-

• Reduces inflammation

• Lowers blood sugar levels in the body

• Relieves pain

• Good for heart health

• Boosts the immune system

• Improves memory

• Enhances blood circulation

• Good for the digestive system

Steps Required in Lotus Cultivation:

Cultivating lotus plants involves several important steps to ensure a successful and beautiful garden. Following these steps is quite important to get a high-quality lotus. Hence, those who wish to cultivate this flower can check its farming processes below.

Weather Conditions:

Before starting the cultivation of lotus, one should keep the below-mentioned lotus weather conditions in mind. 

• Lotus plants do pretty well in warm and sunny climates. 
• Plants require temperatures between 21-29°C. They are comfortable growing in full sunlight for a minimum of 4-6 hours/day. 
• Ensure that the site you have selected is free from extreme windy conditions and extreme cold temperatures. Otherwise, these plants will not be able to grow to their best.

Soil Preparation:

In this step, growers should effectively prepare the soil for the healthy growth of the lotus plants. 

• Proper soil preparation is crucial for healthy lotus growth. Start by clearing weeds and debris from the area. 
• Use a John Deere Mini Tractor to ensure proper land preparation. This tractor is perfect for anyone who has a small farm and wishes to cultivate lotus. These tractors are available in 28 HP to 35 HP. They come in the affordable range, which starts at Rs 7.1 Lakhs. 
• The soil should have good drainage so that lotus roots don’t rot. 
• The ideal soil mix for this farming is clayey, which holds nutrients and is supportive of root growth.

Plantation:

During this stage, farmers will plant the lotus tubers in the water. This stage is also vital for the proper growth of the lotus plants. 

• Plant lotus tubers in shallow water, about 6-12 inches deep, depending on the variety. You can use containers or plant directly in the pond bed. 
• Position the tubers with the growing tips facing upward and ensure they are spaced sufficiently to allow for their expansion. 
• Cover the tubers with a soil layer and ensure the water level remains consistent.

Irrigation:

After the plantation, the irrigation stage comes. In this stage, growers water the lotus plants. Timely irrigation is necessary for the lotus cultivation. 

• Consistent water management is essential for lotus cultivation. Maintain the water depth at a steady level to cover the tubers, but avoid overfilling, which can cause stagnation.
• If dry weather prevails, supplement with additional water to keep the pond or garden bed at the required depth.
• Water quality must be monitored regularly to avoid issues such as algae growth.

Pest and Disease Control:

Various pests and diseases can harm lotus plants. That is why pest and disease controls are required. In this step, growers look for pests and diseases and then use methods that control them. 

• Monitoring is the key to pest and disease management. 
• Monitor your lotus plants for aphids, spider mites, fungal infections, or any other pests or diseases. 
• Apply organic or chemical treatment according to need, but proper air circulation around the plants is essential. 
• Removing dead or decaying plant material helps prevent disease spread and keeps the growing environment healthy.

Harvesting:

This is the second and last important stage of lotus cultivation. In this, mature lotus flowers and seeds are harvested. 

• Farmers should do the harvesting when the lotus flowers and seeds are already in their full-grown stage. 
• For larger gardens or ponds, use equipment like the Massey Ferguson Maxpro Tractor. This tractor can streamline the process, making it easier to collect flowers and seeds.
• Harvest flowers early in the morning when they are still fresh and gather the seeds.

Post-Harvesting Processes: 

This is the last important step of lotus farming. In this step, farmers clean the harvested lotus flowers and seeds. Some also transport them to the market for sale.

• Gently clean the lotus flowers and seeds after harvesting. Store in a cool and dry place to keep them fresh.
• Good packing and handling are important to preserve quality, especially if the products are intended for sale or further use.
• Label the stored lotus products with their harvest date and details. This helps keep track of when they were picked and ensures you use or sell them at the right time.

The Final Words:

Lotus cultivation holds greater economic and profit potential in India. With the right conditions and care, growing lotuses can be a lucrative venture because of their high market value and diverse uses. As demand for both ornamental and medicinal lotuses rises, cultivating them can enhance profitability and contribute positively to the local economy. Additionally, lotus farming can create job opportunities and support local businesses involved in processing and selling lotus products.