Water lily problem - brown leaves

Having had similar problems, and not knowing how many pads you are talking
about this may just be the life cycle. I have decided my 'problems' are as
much sun related as anything. I think plants that get more shade will have
pads that last longer but not be as prolific. You might also inquire where
you got them as to their nature. Some lilies are more sun or shade loving
than others. My biggest consolation had been that I was getting lots of
blooms. Now I have been told this is sometimes another sign of stress. The
plant is sent is sending up more blooms (which turn to seed) because it
thinks it might be dying and wants to make sure it is replaced by new
plants. What most often is the case though, as BV suggested months ago, is
that newbies just have a tendency to over react to any new changes untill
they realize that is just the norm. You didnt mention fish. Make sure you
are fertilizing ecspecially if there are few nitrates in the water.
Bill Brister - Austin, Texas