If you’re looking for a stunning plant that’s easy to grow, you can never go wrong with calla lilies. These elegant and exotic plants come in various colors and can brighten up any indoor or outdoor area. In this post we will learn how to care for Calla Lillies. Including growing in both pots or in your garden. Soil type, light requirements, watering needs and fertilizer needs. Hope you enjoy!
Zone Type for Calla Lily
Calla lilies thrive best in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10. In these zones, the plant can grow outdoors year-round. Since the temperatures do not usually fall below 10°F (-12°C). For gardeners living in colder zones, calla lilies can be grown as annuals. Or the bulbs can be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months. It’s important to note that calla lilies are frost-sensitive and need to be protected from cold temperatures.
How to Grow Calla Lillies in Pots
Firstly, choose a pot that has good drainage. Calla lilies don’t like to sit in water, and too much moisture can lead to root rot. The pot should be deep enough to accommodate the growing rhizomes.
When it comes to soil, calla lilies prefer well-draining soil. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and garden soil would work well. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic, around 6.0-6.5.
Watering your calla lilies properly is crucial. During the growing season, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Reduce watering during the dormant winter months.
Calla lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a window with filtered sunlight. For those growing them outdoors, a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade would be ideal.
Lastly, feeding your calla lilies with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month during the growing season will help them bloom beautifully. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to more foliage and fewer flowers.
Remember, caring for calla lilies requires patience and consistency, but the reward of stunning blooms is truly worth the effort.
Calla Lillies How to Plant Outdoors
Growing calla lilies in your garden is a fantastic way to add a splash of color and elegance to your outdoors. The process is similar to growing them in pots, but you have a bit more freedom with space.
First, select a location that offers some shade in the afternoon to protect your calla lilies from the harsh midday sun. The soil in your garden should be well-draining and slightly acidic. If your garden soil is heavy clay or extremely sandy. You will want to consider amending it with organic matter to improve its structure and fertility.
Plant the rhizomes about 3-4 inches deep, spacing them approximately a foot apart to allow for ample growth. Water them well after planting, and continue to keep the soil moist throughout the growing season.
Just like potted calla lilies, those grown in the garden will benefit from monthly feedings with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Be sure not to overdo it though, as too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.
During winter or in colder climates, it’s recommended to dig up calla lily rhizomes and store them indoors. This will protect them from freezing temperatures. Replant them in the spring to enjoy another season of stunning blooms. Remember, the key to a thriving garden of calla lilies rests on consistent care and patience.
Fertilizer Needs
Calla lilies are moderate feeders. They require a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks. You can use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer. For slow-release fertilizers, apply them once every two to three months. For liquid fertilizers, dilute them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then apply them once every four to six weeks. Do not over-fertilize the plant as this may cause leaf burn.
How long do Calla Lillies Bloom
The blooming period for calla lilies typically stretches from late spring to early fall. Under optimal conditions, these elegant flowers can grace your garden or home with their beauty for a period of 3 to 8 weeks. Notably, the health and vitality of calla lilies’ blooms are directly linked to their care regimen – correct watering, light exposure, and timely fertilization play a crucial role in extending their blooming duration. Therefore, consistent care and attention not only contribute to the overall health of your calla lilies but also to the longevity of their exquisite blooms.
Different Types of Calla Lillies
There is an impressive assortment of calla lilies, each with its unique features and color variations.
- Zantedeschia aethiopica (White Calla Lily): The most common type, it displays pure white flowers and is often used in weddings and funerals. This species can grow up to 3 feet tall and is known for its hardiness and ability to tolerate different weather conditions.
- Zantedeschia rehmannii (Pink Calla Lily): This variety is known for its soft pink flowers that can add a touch of elegance to any garden or bouquet. Pink Calla Lilies can grow up to 2 feet tall and prefer a warm and sunny environment.
- Zantedeschia elliottiana (Golden Calla Lily): This Calla Lily is recognized for its deep golden-yellow flowers and broad, dark green leaves with white or light yellow spots. It can reach up to 2.5 feet in height.
- Zantedeschia albomaculata (Spotted Calla Lily): This type of Calla Lily is distinctive for its white flowers with dark spots. The leaves are also spotted, making it a unique addition to any garden. It can grow up to 2 feet tall.
- Zantedeschia ‘Black Star’ (Black Calla Lily): This exotic variety showcases deep purple, almost black flowers that can make a bold statement in any garden. The ‘Black Star’ is a smaller variety, typically growing to about 1 foot in height.
- Zantedeschia ‘Captain Romance’ (Rose Calla Lily): This variety displays large, rose-pink flowers that can add a romantic touch to any setting. They can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and prefer plenty of sunlight.
Each type of Calla Lily has specific care requirements and tolerances, but all share the fundamental needs for well-draining soil, plenty of light, and regular watering and fertilizing. No matter which variety you choose, the Calla Lily can be an elegant and beautiful addition to your garden or home.
Happy Gardening!
Now that you know how to grow calla lily in pots and the garden, you can enjoy the plant’s beauty and elegance in your home or garden. Remember to choose the right pot type and size for your plant, use well-draining and slightly acidic soil, water the plant only when necessary, provide the plant with bright indirect light, and fertilize the plant moderately. With these tips, your calla lily will flourish and bloom in its full glory.
Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post Page for more tips on all types of gardening. Including Seed Saving, Seed Starting, Orchids, Water Gardening, Coldframe Gardening, Indoor Bulb Gardening, Hydroponics, Container Gardening, Mums, Herbs, African Violets, planting Bulbs, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Deer resistant plants and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!