New Water Lilies Not Blooming, Leaves Rotting: Transplant Shock

Two new lilies (pink, white) had full blooms and buds when bought. After planting, no blooms, one lily's leaves rotting. Water >70°F, full sun, no fertilizer tablets added yet.

Why This Happens

New lilies often shed all initial growth—flowers, buds, leaves—due to transplant shock (multiple moves, transport, light changes). Rotting leaves are normal die-back.

Fix It

1. Repot if not done: Clay soil, pea gravel top, 5-gal pot.
2. Add fertilizer tablets: 1 per gallon soil, deep, not touching roots.
3. Remove rotting material: Prevents decay spreading.
4. Wait: New leaves in 2–4 weeks; flowers in 1–2 months.

Check for Pests

Ensure fish/turtles aren't uprooting or eating the lily.

Patience—this is standard lily acclimation.