Calla lilies, also known as “Cartridges” or “Alcatraz,” are elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers that are prized for their beauty and versatility. Whether you are growing them in your garden or as houseplants, callas can bring a touch of sophistication to any space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow and care for these stunning flowers.
Why Grow Calla Lilies?
Calla lilies are not only known for their striking flowers but also for their long-lasting blooms, making them perfect for bouquets and arrangements. These plants are relatively easy to grow and can be enjoyed year after year with the right care. Callas are available in a range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple, adding variety to your garden or indoor space.
Growing Calla Lilies: Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose the Right Location
- Sunlight: Calla lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade. In areas with very hot summers, partial shade is ideal to prevent the flowers from wilting.
- Soil: They prefer well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil. The soil should be loose to allow the roots to spread and grow properly.
- Planting Calla Lilies
- When to Plant: Plant calla lily bulbs (rhizomes) in the spring, after the last frost date. In warmer climates, you can plant them in the fall.
- How to Plant:
- Dig a hole about 3-4 inches deep for each bulb. If you’re planting multiple bulbs, space them about 12-18 inches apart.
- Place the bulb with the “eyes” or growth points facing up and cover with soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting, but make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid root rot.
- Watering Calla Lilies
- Calla lilies need consistently moist soil, but not soggy. Water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during their active growing season in the spring and summer.
- Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant goes dormant. Overwatering during dormancy can lead to bulb rot.
- Fertilizing
- Calla lilies benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer or one that is high in phosphorus, which promotes blooming.
- Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in the winter.
- Temperature and Humidity
- Calla lilies grow best in warm temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15-24°C). They are sensitive to frost, so ensure they are planted after the last frost of the season.
- They also enjoy high humidity. If growing indoors, consider placing a humidifier nearby or misting the leaves regularly.
- Caring for Calla Lilies During Dormancy
- In cooler climates, calla lilies are usually grown as annuals because they are sensitive to frost. After blooming, the plant goes dormant in late fall. At this time:
- Cut back the foliage to about 2 inches above the soil.
- Dig up the bulbs and allow them to dry out for a few days in a cool, dry place.
- Store the bulbs in a paper bag or mesh sack in a cool, dark area until the next planting season.
- In cooler climates, calla lilies are usually grown as annuals because they are sensitive to frost. After blooming, the plant goes dormant in late fall. At this time:
- Pest and Disease Control
- Calla lilies are generally resistant to pests, but they can occasionally suffer from aphids, slugs, or snails.
- Use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests are a problem.
- Keep an eye out for fungal diseases like botrytis and root rot, particularly in humid or overwatered conditions.
- Repotting Calla Lilies (For Indoor Plants)
- If you are growing calla lilies indoors, they may outgrow their pots. Repot them every 1-2 years to give the rhizomes more room to expand.
- Choose a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one and provide fresh potting mix.
Additional Tips for Success
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants in the garden to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, especially during hot weather.
- Companion Plants: Calla lilies pair well with other water-loving plants such as ferns or hostas, or with plants that provide shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Cutting Flowers: For beautiful bouquets, cut the flowers when they are in full bloom. Callas have long stems and make stunning additions to floral arrangements.
Final Thoughts
Calla lilies are a fantastic addition to any garden or indoor collection. By following these simple planting and care tips, you can enjoy their graceful blooms year after year. Whether grown in the ground or in containers, calla lilies are a wonderful way to bring color and elegance to your home or garden. With the right care, they will reward you with their timeless beauty.