Overwintering Hardy Water Lilies in a Barrel Pond: Indoor Storage Methods

Damp Sand Method

After frost kills foliage, remove the lily pot. Rinse the tuber. Trim roots and dead tissue. Place in a zip-top bag with barely damp sand or peat. Store in a cool (40–50°F), dark place (basement). Check monthly for mold.

Alternative: Indoor Pond

If you have a heated indoor pond with grow lights, you can keep lilies growing slowly. But the damp-sand method is more reliable for hardy varieties.

Spring Restart

In early spring, pot in heavy clay soil, top with gravel, and submerge in the pond after last frost.