The generation of plants by seed is unusual. Seeds are highly heterozygous and, therefore, the progeny may not be true to the original variety. Many seeds obtained from overseas are not viable and not a reliable source of planting material. Further, germinated seedlings will not produce a crop until the following season but a vegetatively propagated crop will yield a harvestable crop in one season. However, if it needs to be propagated by seed, the best and most simple method is to make a small hole on the seed skin.
Lotus prefers to be grown in organically abundant media.
It is known that Lotus grows in a wide range of pH and prefers fresh water. In China, the soil pH ranged between 5.6-7.5. The optimum soil pH is believed to be 6.5. Common pests found on lotus are Caddis fly larvae, cluster caterpillar and aphids. It is also subject to powdery mildew, phytophthora crown rot and lotus streak virus.