How To Grow And Care For A Calla Lily Plant

Calla lilies are a great addition to any garden. Also known as Zantedeschia, these beautiful flowers come in different varieties and are native to southern Africa. They are hardy, low-maintenance plants that can thrive in different conditions. In this article, we will discuss different types of calla lilies, their plant attributes, care, pruning, propagation, potting and repotting, common pests and diseases, and common problems. Plant Attributes of Calla Lilies Calla lilies are a type of perennial bulb that can grow up to 24 inches tall. Their foliage is either green or variegated and their flowers are trumpet-shaped with a wide range of colors including white, pink, yellow, orange, and red. The flowers bloom in late spring to midsummer and have a long-lasting vase life when cut. In terms of growing conditions, calla lilies prefer moist and well-drained soil. They need to be watered regularly, especially during dry seasons. They can also tolerate partial shade, but they bloom better in full sun. Plant Care for Calla Lilies To care for calla lilies, you will need to water them regularly, especially during the growing season. You should make sure the soil stays moist, but not waterlogged. You can fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to keep them healthy and blooming. Mulching is important to keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from growing near the plant. Additionally, you should cut back the dead foliage in the fall and cover the plant with mulch to protect it during the winter months. Pruning Calla Lilies Pruning calla lilies is essential to keep the plants healthy and promote new growth. After the growing season, you should cut back the dead stems to about two inches above the soil. You can also remove any diseased or damaged foliage to prevent the spread of disease. Propagation of Calla Lilies Calla lilies can be propagated by division of the bulbs. You should dig up the bulbs after the growing season and separate the offsets from the parent bulb. You can then replant the offsets in new locations or containers. Potting and Repotting Calla Lilies Calla lilies can also be grown in containers. You should plant them in well-drained soil and water them regularly. They should also be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. Repotting calla lilies is necessary every two to three years to prevent overcrowding of the bulbs. You should carefully lift the plant from the pot and remove any excess soil. You can then separate the bulbs and replant them in fresh soil. Common Pests and Diseases of Calla Lilies Calla lilies are generally hardy plants, but they can be affected by different pests and diseases. Spider mites and aphids are common pests that can damage the foliage and flowers of the plant. You can use insecticidal soap to control these pests. Botrytis blight and root rot are common diseases that affect calla lilies. You can prevent these diseases by avoiding overwatering and providing adequate air circulation. If the plants are already infected, you can treat them with a fungicide. Common Problems with Calla Lilies One of the most common problems with calla lilies is the yellowing of the leaves. This can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency. You can correct this by adjusting the watering schedule and adding fertilizer to the soil. Another common problem is the lack of blooms. This can be caused by a lack of sunlight, overcrowding of the bulbs, or improper fertilization. You can correct this by providing adequate sunlight and separating the bulbs after the growing season. In conclusion, calla lilies are hardy plants that can thrive in different conditions. By following the proper plant care, pruning, propagation, potting and repotting, and pest and disease control, you can enjoy the beauty of these flowers in your garden. Calla Lily Plant, Zantedeschia Flower - How to Grow + Care Indoors