Lotus Growing Set

The Lotus Growing Set by Radis et Capucine brings the queen of aquatic plants right into your living room. This complete kit contains everything you need to cultivate the pink lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) in an elegant glass vase – from seed to bloom.

What's in the Kit?

• 1 glass vase (11 × 11 × 18 cm)
• 2 lotus seeds (Nelumbo nucifera)
• Decorative glass marbles as substrate
• 1 illustrated growing guide (DE, EN, IT, ES)

Step-by-Step: How to Grow Lotus from Seed

1. Scarify the seeds: Lotus seeds have an extremely hard shell. Using a nail file or fine sandpaper, carefully file the round end of the seed until you see the pale, cream-coloured layer beneath. Don't file too deep – the inner layer protects the embryo.

2. Soak: Place the scarified seeds in a glass of lukewarm water (approx. 25 °C). Change the water daily. After 2–4 days, the seeds swell and a small green shoot appears.

3. Water germination: Place the glass in a bright, warm spot (at least 6 hours of light per day). The shoot grows remarkably fast – often 2–3 cm per day. After about a week, the first round floating leaves develop.

4. Transfer to the vase: Once the shoot is about 10 cm long, place it in the included glass vase. The glass marbles anchor the seedling. Fill with water and place in a sunny location.

5. Ongoing care: Keep the water level constant and change it every 5–7 days. Lotus loves warmth – ideal water temperature is 20–30 °C. In summer, move the vase to a balcony or terrace.

Tips from the Experts

• Patience with flowering: The first bloom often appears in the second year. During year one, the plant focuses on leaf growth – perfectly normal.
• Water quality: Use soft, lime-free water (rainwater is ideal). Let chlorinated tap water sit overnight before use.
• For long-term growth: After a few months, consider repotting into a wide, shallow bowl (30 cm+ diameter) with clay soil at the bottom and 10–15 cm of water above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grow lotus indoors?
Yes! Lotus needs plenty of light – ideally a south-facing window with at least 6 hours of direct sun. Move outdoors in summer for best results.

What bowl size do I need long-term?
The included vase is perfect for the initial phase. For permanent cultivation, use a wide bowl at least 30 cm in diameter and 15–20 cm deep.

What's the difference to the seed-only version (CHF 5.95)?
The seed-only pack contains just seeds and instructions – you need your own container. This complete set includes the elegant glass vase and decorative marbles, ready to start immediately.

Why isn't my seed germinating?
Most common mistake: insufficient scarification. The hard shell must be filed down to the pale inner layer. The seed also needs warm water (min. 20 °C).