Each leaf has deep ribs, scalloped edges, parallel veins, and no significant stems.

The plant has small, insignificant pale green or white flowers in between the foliage.

It blooms from late summer to late fall.

It is toxic to people and pets.

Water Lettuce Benefits

Water lettuce is great for cleaning pond water of decomposition byproducts.

It is often used to keep water healthy for aquatic life.

It reducesalgae bloomsby blocking sunlight and using the nutrients needed for the algae to bloom.

It can choke out other vegetation and fish.

Soil

Water lettuce’s roots are free-floating, so soil isn’t necessary.

Water

Good water conditions are key for growing water lettuce.

Soft to moderatelyhard wateris best.

It’s sensitive to water minerals.

Water lettuce prefers pH levels that are neutral, slightly alkaline, or slightly acidic.

Aim for a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.

Water lettuce grows best in medium to high humidity levels.

The plant’s leaves will dry out in low humidity.

Fertilizer

There are a few ways to fertilize water lettuce.

If there’s any doubt, move the water lettuce to its own place for fertilizing.

Pruning weekly will likely be necessary.

Removing large mother parents will help to slow the spread.

Propagating Water Lettuce

It’s easy to add water lettuce to a pond or water garden.

In the spring, simply spread the plant on the water’s surface.

The ideal spot is one with no current, as the plant doesn’t do well in moving water.

Propagating water lettuce is simple and easy.

Overwintering Water Lettuce

Water lettuce will not tolerate frost or cold temperatures.

Keep it in an area that says above 50F.

For best results, keep the water close to 70F.

Occasional full sun exposure and fertilization can be good.

Aphidsare also known to feed on water lettuce and can be difficult to get rid of once established.

They can cause visible damage to the leaves and hinder growth significantly.

Yellowing progresses to browning.

You may need to supplement the water with a fertilizer treatment if it lacks nutrients.

By contrast, plants that receive less-than-ideal sun exposure may have leaves darker green than is typical.

Incoming winter season or frost will cause wilting, stunted growth and death if the conditions persist.

Water lettuce is a perennial evergreen in tropical and subtropical climates.

Once mature, it is a very fast grower.

Unchecked, it can cover a large pond surface in one growing season.

How to control water lettuce.

Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.