What to Do With Calla Lilies After They Bloom: Expert Tips for Care and Preservation
What to Do With Calla Lilies After They Bloom?
After calla lilies bloom, there are several steps you can take.
If you live in an area with colder winters (zones 3-7), treat calla lilies as annuals and plant new bulbs each spring.
For warmer climates (zones 8-10), you can leave the rhizomes in the ground for blooming the next summer.
However, if you want to save calla lilies for the next year, fertilize throughout the growing season, cut off flower stems after blooming, and dig up the rhizomes after the leaves have died back or after the first frost.
Trim the foliage and let the rhizomes cure in a warm, dry place.
Then, store the rhizomes in a box with barely damp peat moss in a dark place at 50-60°F.
Check the rhizomes for moisture levels once or twice during winter.
Finally, replant the rhizomes in the spring.
Key Points:
- In colder climates (zones 3-7), treat calla lilies as annuals and plant new bulbs each spring.
- In warmer climates (zones 8-10), leave the rhizomes in the ground for blooming the next summer.
- To save calla lilies for the next year, fertilize throughout the growing season and cut off flower stems after blooming.
- Dig up the rhizomes after the leaves have died back or after the first frost.
- Trim the foliage and let the rhizomes cure in a warm, dry place.
- Store the rhizomes in a box with barely damp peat moss in a dark place at 50-60°F and check moisture levels during winter.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that calla lilies are not actually lilies? Despite their name, these elegant flowers belong to the Araceae family, making them relatives of other popular houseplants like peace lilies and philodendrons.
2. While most people associate calla lilies with white blooms, they can also be found in a variety of shades, including pink, yellow, and even deep purple. These vibrant hues can add a touch of uniqueness to any floral arrangement or garden.
3. Calla lilies are not just admired for their beauty; they also hold cultural significance. In ancient Roman times, these flowers were associated with celebrations and triumph. They were believed to symbolize purity and were often used in religious ceremonies and events, adding an extra touch of grace and elegance.
4. In the language of flowers, giving someone calla lilies can convey different meanings depending on the color of the flowers. For instance, white calla lilies symbolize purity and innocence, while yellow ones represent gratitude. It’s always interesting to know the hidden messages behind floral gifts!
5. After the flowers have bloomed, calla lilies can produce beautiful red or orange berries. However, these berries are not edible and can be toxic, so caution is advised if you have pets or small children around.
Storing Calla Lily Rhizomes During Winter
After the vibrant blooms of calla lilies have faded, it is time to prepare the plants for the upcoming winter months. Calla lilies are not cold-hardy in most climates and require protection from frost. To store calla lily rhizomes during winter, it is crucial to select a cool and frost-free location.
In late autumn, once the leaves have died back or after the first frost, carefully dig up the calla lily rhizomes from the ground. Gently shake off any excess soil and remove any damaged or dead foliage.
Next, trim the foliage back to a few inches above the rhizomes. This will help conserve energy during the dormant period. Allow the rhizomes to cure in a warm and dry place for a few days before proceeding with storage.
For storage, choose a dark place with a consistent temperature between 50-60°F (10-15°C). Place the rhizomes in a box or container filled with barely damp peat moss. Ensure that the peat moss remains slightly moist throughout the winter. Check the moisture levels once or twice during the winter to adjust if necessary.
Taking these steps to store calla lily rhizomes properly will ensure their survival during the winter months, allowing you to enjoy these beautiful flowers year after year.
Propagating Calla Lilies By Dividing Rhizomes
Propagating calla lilies through division is an excellent way to expand your collection or share with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Late winter, when the calla lilies are dormant, is the ideal time to divide their rhizomes.
Start by carefully digging up the calla lily rhizomes from the ground or their containers. Gently shake off any soil, but be careful not to damage the delicate roots.
Inspect the rhizomes closely for any signs of damage or disease. Healthy rhizomes will feel firm and have a plump appearance. If you notice any soft or mushy spots, it is best to discard those rhizomes.
Using a sharp and sterilized knife or pruning shears, divide the rhizomes into segments, making sure each section has at least one healthy bud or growing point. It is essential to keep each division reasonably sized to ensure successful growth and flower production in the following season.
Once divided, repot the calla lily rhizomes into individual containers or directly into the garden. Use a moist compost or a quality growing mix, ensuring that the rhizome is positioned just below the soil surface. Water the newly potted divisions thoroughly and place them in a location with indirect light.
With proper care, the divided calla lily rhizomes will establish themselves and begin to produce new shoots and foliage. This can take up to two weeks or more, so be patient with their growth. By dividing your calla lilies, you can create a larger and more impressive display of flowers in the coming season.
Inspecting And Treating Calla Lilies For Aphids
As with any garden plant, calla lilies are susceptible to pests, and aphids are a common problem. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing leaf distortion and stunting growth if left untreated.
Regular inspections of calla lilies, particularly the undersides of the leaves, are crucial in preventing aphid infestations. These pests typically gather on the undersides of leaves, where they can go unnoticed for some time.
If you spot aphids on your calla lilies, it is essential to take immediate action to prevent further damage. One option is to remove the aphids manually by gently wiping the affected leaves with a damp cloth or spraying them with a jet of water. However, this method may not be effective in controlling a large infestation.
Alternatively, insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can be used to treat aphids on calla lilies. These products are designed to suffocate and eliminate the pests while being safe for the plants. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully to ensure proper application and dosage.
Regular monitoring and active treatment will help keep aphids in check and maintain the health and beauty of your calla lilies.
Buying Calla Lilies From Reputable Sources
When adding calla lilies to your garden or expanding your collection, it is important to source them from reputable suppliers. Whether purchasing from a local nursery or an online vendor, choosing a reliable source ensures that you receive healthy and true-to-type plants.
Reputable sources are more likely to provide calla lilies that have been properly cared for and are free from diseases or pests. They may also offer a wider selection of varieties, including sought-after cultivars like Zantedeschia ‘Black Forest’.
When buying calla lilies online, it is crucial to read reviews from other customers to gauge the seller’s reputation. Look for sites that provide detailed information about the plant’s size, growing requirements, and care instructions. A reliable seller will also ship the plants at the appropriate time to avoid stress or damage during transit.
Local nurseries can be a great option for purchasing calla lilies as you can personally inspect the plants, ensuring they are healthy and free from any issues. The knowledgeable staff can also provide guidance on selection, planting, and care.
By choosing reputable sources, you can be confident in acquiring quality calla lilies that will thrive in your garden and delight you with their stunning blooms.
- Source calla lilies from reputable suppliers
- Check customer reviews when buying online
- Choose sites that provide detailed plant information
- Consider purchasing from local nurseries for hands-on inspection and guidance
Growing And Caring For Calla Lilies Throughout The Year
Calla lilies provide a touch of elegance and beauty to any garden or container display. To grow and care for calla lilies successfully, it is essential to follow specific guidelines throughout the year.
- Calla lilies thrive in full sun or partial shade, making them versatile for various garden settings.
- They prefer well-drained soil, but if planting in containers, it is essential to use a quality growing mix to ensure proper drainage.
When initially planted, water the calla lilies sparingly, gradually increasing watering as they establish roots. Too much moisture can lead to rhizome rot. Adequate moisture is crucial during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater.
Calla lilies generally start shooting up new growth in late winter or early spring. The emergence of shoots can take up to two weeks or more, so be patient with their progress.
In warm climates, calla lilies typically bloom in early summer. However, if planted in the spring, flowering may be delayed until late summer. Regular doses of liquid fertilizer are recommended, especially for container-grown calla lilies, to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
In zones 8-10, calla lilies can be left in the ground for blooming in the following summer. However, if you notice a decrease in the number or size of flowers over time, it may be necessary to divide the rhizomes to rejuvenate the plant.
For cooler areas (zones 3-7), calla lilies are treated as annuals. Plant new bulbs each spring for a fresh display of flowers. Overwintering the rhizomes indoors is possible, but expect potentially reduced flower production in the second year.
To save calla lilies for the next year, it is important to fertilize throughout the growing season and cut off the flower stems after blooming. This will allow the plants to conserve energy and focus on rhizome development and storage.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of calla lilies throughout the year and ensure their long-term health and vitality in your garden.
- Grow calla lilies in full sun or partial shade.
- Use well-drained soil or quality growing mix for containers.
- Water sparingly initially, gradually increasing as they establish roots.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot.
- Be patient for shoots to emerge, which may take up to two weeks.
- Apply regular doses of liquid fertilizer for abundant flowering.
- In zones 8-10, consider dividing rhizomes if flower quantity or size decreases over time.
- In cooler areas (zones 3-7), treat calla lilies as annuals and plant new bulbs each spring.
- Fertilize throughout the growing season and cut off flower stems after blooming to conserve energy and encourage rhizome development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with calla lily after blooms?
After the calla lily blooms, it is important to remove the spent flowers and allow the foliage to continue growing. This will help the plant store energy for next year’s bloom. In winter-hardy climates, the rhizomes can be left in the ground and will bloom again the following summer. However, if the flowers start to decline over time, it is recommended to dig up and divide the rhizomes to promote healthy growth and maximize flowering.
Do calla lilies bloom more than once?
Yes, calla lilies can bloom more than once. As perennials, they have the ability to produce new growth and blooms every year. However, to ensure their continuous blooming, it is important to provide them with the proper care including well-drained soil, consistent watering, and the ideal amount of sunlight ranging from partial shade to full sun. With the right growing conditions, calla lilies will reward you with their beautiful blooms year after year.
What to do when lilies have finished flowering?
Once your lilies have finished flowering, it is important to remove the flower heads but leave the foliage intact. Resist the urge to cut back the stems until they turn hollow and brown, as this allows the bulb to receive nutrients for the following year’s blooms. Allowing the foliage to die back naturally ensures the bulb can store energy and sustain itself for future growth and flowering. By following this process, you can ensure the long-term health and vibrancy of your lilies.
How long do calla lilies last after they bloom?
Once calla lilies bloom, their captivating beauty endures for up to two weeks if given the proper care. To maximize their lifespan, it is essential to provide regular attention. This entails refreshing the water every two to three days and meticulously trimming the stems at an angle, encouraging optimal water absorption and ensuring the flowers maintain their freshness throughout this enchanting period.