How to Dig Up Calla Lily Bulbs: Tips and Tricks for a Bountiful Harvest

Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and lush foliage, are a beloved addition to any garden. However, these beauties need a period of rest during the winter months to thrive. This means digging up their bulbs and storing them properly until spring. But how do you go about this process? This post will guide you through the steps of how to dig up calla lily bulbs, ensuring a healthy and flourishing return next season.

Timing is Everything: When to Dig Up Calla Lily Bulbs

The key to successful bulb storage is timing. You want to dig up your calla lily bulbs when they’ve finished blooming and the foliage has begun to yellow and die back. This usually happens in late summer or early fall, depending on your climate.

Here’s a simple guide:

• Warm climates: Dig up your bulbs in late summer or early fall once the foliage has died back.
• Cooler climates: You might have a bit more time, but aim to dig them up before the first frost.

Preparing for the Dig: Gathering Your Tools

Before you start digging, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient:

• Garden trowel or shovel: Choose a tool that’s comfortable to use and appropriate for the size of your bulbs.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and potential scratches.
• Bucket or container: You’ll need a place to store your bulbs after digging.
• Sharp knife or pruning shears: For trimming the foliage.
• Labeling materials: If you have multiple varieties, label your bulbs to avoid confusion.

Digging Up the Calla Lily Bulbs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Follow these steps to carefully dig up your calla lily bulbs:

1. Locate the bulbs: Identify the location of your calla lily plants.
2. Dig around the base: Using your trowel or shovel, carefully dig around the base of the plant, making a circle about 6-8 inches away from the stem.
3. Gently lift the bulb: Once you’ve loosened the soil, gently lift the bulb out of the ground, taking care not to damage the roots.
4. Trim the foliage: Use your knife or shears to trim the foliage back to about an inch above the bulb.
5. Inspect and clean: Inspect the bulbs for any signs of disease or damage. Gently brush away any excess soil.
6. Place in a container: Place the bulbs in your bucket or container, making sure they are not touching each other.

Storing Calla Lily Bulbs: Ensuring a Successful Winter Rest

Once you’ve dug up your bulbs, it’s time to store them properly for the winter. Here’s how:

1. Choose a cool, dry location: An ideal storage location is a cool, dry, and dark place with temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C). A basement, garage, or attic can work well.
2. Use a breathable container: Store the bulbs in a container that allows for air circulation, such as a cardboard box or a mesh bag. Don’t use plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to rot.
3. Layer with peat moss or vermiculite: To prevent the bulbs from drying out, layer them with peat moss or vermiculite.
4. Monitor regularly: Check the bulbs occasionally to ensure they are not rotting or drying out. If necessary, add more peat moss or vermiculite.

Preparing for Spring: Planting Your Calla Lily Bulbs

As spring approaches, it’s time to prepare for the return of your beautiful calla lilies.

1. Acclimate the bulbs: A few weeks before the last frost, start acclimating your bulbs to warmer temperatures. You can do this by bringing them indoors or placing them in a sunny spot outdoors.
2. Choose a suitable location: Calla lilies prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil.
3. Plant the bulbs: Plant the bulbs about 4-6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up. Water them well after planting.

Time to Bloom Again: Enjoying Your Calla Lily Comeback

With proper care and attention, your calla lily bulbs will reward you with beautiful blooms come spring. Enjoy the vibrant colors and graceful shapes of these stunning flowers!

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I leave my calla lily bulbs in the ground over winter?

A: In some mild climates, you can leave your calla lily bulbs in the ground over winter. However, in colder regions, they are likely to freeze and die. It’s best to dig them up and store them indoors for the winter.

Q: How long can I store calla lily bulbs?

A: Calla lily bulbs can be stored for several months, even up to a year, if stored properly.

Q: What if my calla lily bulbs start to sprout?

A: If your bulbs start to sprout while in storage, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. It simply means they are getting ready to grow. You can either replant them immediately or continue storing them in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to plant them.

Q: Can I divide calla lily bulbs?

A: Yes, you can divide calla lily bulbs to create more plants. Divide the bulbs in the spring or fall, after you’ve dug them up. Make sure each division has at least one growing point.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect calla lilies?

A: Calla lilies are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to problems like aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases. Use organic pest control methods and ensure good drainage to prevent disease.