July is the season to look out for mature lilies in older ponds. There is nothing to beat the calming influence of a white lily on a pond of still water. Of course not all ponds are and remain tranquil. This smaller pond on Filey cliff tops acts as an advertising hoarding for ice cream. Who invented ice cream for dogs? It is already enough to encourage kids to splash in the pond never mind dogs.

 Waterlily Tips

• Waterlilies need a position in full sun to flower at  their best.
• Waterlilies need calm, still water. Warm water and light provide the best conditions.
• Even deep varieties can’t grow when the water is more than 5 feet deep. Most varieties grow happily in 3 to 4 ft of water if allowed time to establish.
• Waterlilies are best planted from late spring to mid-summer.

Lily Pond Tips

• Do not allow trees to over hang a pond
• Keep fountains and running water away from lilies as they do not like disturbance or flowing water
• A base of natural clay and silt are the best medium into which you plant lilies
• Read Gardeners Tips
• Aim for a minimum two thirds water to one third water lily and you will get the best reflections.

Burnby Hall Yorkshire (above) has two magnificent lakes holding a national collection of Water Lilies.