Calla Lily Care And Tips
A calla lily (Zantedeschia sp.) is one of the most beautiful flowers in the world, even though they are not considered lilies. In beds and borders, this beautiful plant grows from rhizomes and comes in a variety of colors. In addition to growing calla lilies outdoors, you can also grow them indoors in a sunny window. If you want to make your calla lilies sparkle in your yard, here are a few tips.
How to Grow Calla Lilies
Calla lilies are easy to grow. There is not much maintenance required for these plants. When growing calla lilies, planting and location are the most important factors. It is important to plant calla lilies in loose and in well-drained soil. It is best to place them in full sun or partial shade in warmer climates. Typically, calla lilies are planted in the spring. Calla lilies should be planted after the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently.
For best results, calla lilies should be planted about four inches (10 cm.) deep and one foot (0.5 m.) apart. After planting, the area should be well watered. The calla lily will benefit from a monthly dose of fertilizer throughout the growing season as well as a moist environment. Apart from watering and fertilizing them, calla lilies require little care other than watering and fertilizing. In order to keep the area moist and weed-free, mulch should be spread around the plants.
The Care of Calla Lilies
After flowering has ended, calla lilies must go into dormancy. Water the plant as little as possible during this period to allow it to die back. Calla lilies grown in containers should be moved to a dark area once their foliage fades. It will take two to three months for regular watering to resume. In warmer climates, calla lilies can stay in the ground year-round, but in cooler areas they should be lifted and stored.
Calla Lilies: Winter Care
It is best to dig up the rhizomes after the first frost, and to shake off any soil that may be attached. The rhizomes should be allowed to dry out for a few days before being stored for the winter. To store calla lilies until warmer temperatures return in spring, place them in peat moss and in a cool, dry place, preferably in the dark. It is also possible to start your calla lilies indoors during late winter and transplant them outside in spring. Also during their dormancy period or when lifted, calla lilies can be divided.
