Can't believe this

[crazyfishlady]

This isn't the best pic, but las year I planted this lily(smaller upper pads) directly in the rock 8-10inches below the budding lily (larger lower pads) it spead upwards? Didn't know they did that.

[Sunbeam56]

Its amazing how FAST they respond to water depth.

[Mikey]

I have heard of people growing lilies in only gravel.  They report that the plants are not as vigorous and don't flower as well as those planted in soil.  I plant my water iris and arrowhead in soil-less media and they do well.  Your lily looks like it is doing well without soil.

[crazyfishlady]

I have 5 hardy lilies just in the rock, they probably don't bloom as much, because I don't fertilize them. My pond guy said they filter the water better when not in pots and the fish provide nutrients. It must work because that lily wasn't there last year. I grow them mostly for the cover the pads provide and the lilies are a beautiful bonus. I do have some large buds coming up right now.

He installed four when he built the pond and I hope to post some pictures when they open so maybe you experts can tell me what they are.