how to care for calla lilies

With their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms and statuesque stems, calla lilies bring a touch of sophisticated beauty to any garden or home. These graceful plants, available in a stunning array of colors from classic white to deep burgundy, might seem delicate, but they are surprisingly resilient. Whether you’re growing them in a pot on your patio or as part of a vibrant flower bed, knowing how to care for calla lilies is the key to enjoying their long-lasting flowers season after season. A little bit of the right knowledge goes a long way in helping these stunning plants thrive.

The Essentials of How to Care for Calla Lilies

The foundation of happy calla lilies lies in getting their basic needs just right. These plants adore bright, indirect light. Too much harsh, direct sun can scorch their leaves, while too little light can result in fewer blooms. When it comes to water, consistency is crucial. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. A well-draining potting mix is your best friend here, as it prevents the rhizomes (their root-like structures) from sitting in water and rotting.

Feeding for Fabulous Flowers

To support those magnificent blooms, your calla lilies will appreciate a little extra nutrition. During their active growing and flowering season, feed them with a balanced, liquid fertilizer every couple of weeks. This provides the essential nutrients they need to produce strong stems and vibrant, colorful spathes (the specialized leaf that we call the flower). Once the blooming period is over and the leaves begin to yellow, you can stop fertilizing as the plant prepares for its rest period.

Encouraging a Winter Rest

Calla lilies need a dormant period to recharge for the next growing season. If you live in a cooler climate where winters freeze, you’ll need to dig up the rhizomes in the fall after the foliage has died back. Gently brush off the soil, let them dry for a day or two, and then store them in a cool, dark place in a box of peat moss or vermiculite. For potted callas, you can simply stop watering and store the entire pot in a cool, dry location until spring.

Troubleshooting Common Questions

If your calla lily’s leaves are turning yellow, it’s often a natural sign that the plant is entering dormancy. However, yellowing during the growing season can signal overwatering. If you notice a lack of flowers, the most common culprits are not enough light, a need for fertilizer, or the plant being too young or crowded. Dividing the rhizomes every few years can give them the space they need to perform their best.

With their graceful form and stunning colors, calla lilies are a truly rewarding plant to grow. By providing them with the right balance of light, water, and food, and respecting their need for a winter nap, you can enjoy their spectacular beauty for many years to come.