Don’t Let Your Calla Lilies Fade Away: Expert Advice on How to Keep Calla Lily Bulbs Over Winter
What To Know
- Store the bag in a cool, dry, and dark location, such as a basement or garage.
- If you prefer a more organized approach, you can store the bulbs in pots filled with a dry potting mix.
- Once the shoots have grown a few inches, it’s time to repot or plant the bulbs outdoors.
Calla lilies, with their elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers and glossy foliage, are a beloved addition to gardens and homes. But what happens to these beauties when the weather turns chilly? Knowing how to keep calla lily bulbs over winter is key to ensuring their return in spring. This guide will walk you through the process of storing these bulbs, guaranteeing a vibrant bloom next season.
The Dormant Stage: Nature’s Pause Button
Calla lilies are technically perennials, but in colder climates, they are treated as annuals. This is because their bulbs need a period of dormancy to survive the freezing temperatures. During dormancy, the bulbs enter a rest phase, drawing energy from their reserves to prepare for the next growing season. This is a vital process for their survival.
When to Dig Up Your Calla Lily Bulbs
The ideal time to dig up your calla lily bulbs is after the first frost has killed the foliage. This typically occurs in late autumn. Look for signs of browning and wilting in the leaves. Once the foliage has died back, you can gently lift the bulbs from the ground.
Preparing the Bulbs for Winter Storage
Before storing your calla lily bulbs, it’s crucial to prepare them for their winter slumber. Here’s how:
- Clean and Dry: Gently brush off any dirt or debris adhering to the bulbs. Allow them to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few days. This drying process helps prevent rot and fungal growth.
- Remove Excess Foliage: Cut back the remaining foliage, leaving about an inch above the bulb. This helps to prevent moisture buildup and rot during storage.
- Inspect for Damage: Examine the bulbs for any signs of damage, rot, or pests. Discard any bulbs that appear unhealthy.
Storage Options: Choosing the Right Haven
Once your calla lily bulbs are prepped, they need a suitable winter haven. Here are a few storage options:
- Paper Bags: This is a simple and effective method. Place the bulbs in a paper bag, ensuring they are not touching each other. Store the bag in a cool, dry, and dark location, such as a basement or garage.
- Mesh Bags: Similar to paper bags, mesh bags provide good ventilation. This is particularly helpful if you have a large number of bulbs. Store the mesh bag in a cool, dry, and dark location.
- Pots: If you prefer a more organized approach, you can store the bulbs in pots filled with a dry potting mix. Place the pots in a cool, dry, and dark location.
Maintaining the Ideal Storage Conditions
The success of storing calla lily bulbs depends on maintaining the right conditions:
- Temperature: The ideal storage temperature for calla lily bulbs is between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C). Avoid storing them in freezing temperatures, as this can damage the bulbs.
- Humidity: Keep the storage area dry to prevent rot. Avoid storing the bulbs in damp or humid environments.
- Darkness: Calla lily bulbs prefer darkness during their dormant period. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight.
Waking Up Your Bulbs: The Spring Awakening
As spring approaches, it’s time to awaken your calla lily bulbs from their winter slumber. Here’s how:
- Check for Signs of Growth: Around April or May, depending on your climate, start checking the bulbs for signs of growth. You’ll notice new shoots emerging from the bulbs.
- Repotting or Planting: Once the shoots have grown a few inches, it’s time to repot or plant the bulbs outdoors. Choose a well-drained soil and a location with partial shade.
- Watering: Water the bulbs regularly, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Beyond Winter: Caring for Your Calla Lilies
With the spring awakening, your calla lilies will begin their journey towards blooming. Here are some tips for ensuring their continued health:
- Fertilizer: Feed your calla lilies with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
- Water Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Protect from Frost: In colder climates, protect your calla lilies from frost during the fall.
The Calla Lily’s Triumphant Return: A Celebration of Life
As summer unfolds, your calla lilies will reward you with their elegant blooms. Their vibrant colors and graceful form will bring joy to your garden or home. By understanding the importance of dormancy and following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your calla lilies thrive season after season.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I keep calla lily bulbs outside in the winter?
A: In mild climates where temperatures rarely drop below freezing, you can leave calla lily bulbs in the ground. However, in colder climates, they need to be dug up and stored indoors to prevent them from freezing.
Q: What if my calla lily bulbs start to rot in storage?
A: If you notice any signs of rot, remove the affected bulbs immediately. Dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Q: Can I store calla lily bulbs in a refrigerator?
A: While some people store bulbs in a refrigerator, it’s not ideal. The temperature in a refrigerator is typically too cold for calla lily bulbs. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry, and dark location.
Q: How long can I keep calla lily bulbs in storage?
A: Calla lily bulbs can be stored for several months, usually up to a year. However, it’s best to plant them as soon as possible in the spring to ensure optimal growth.
Q: What if my calla lily bulbs don‘t bloom in the spring?
A: There are several reasons why calla lily bulbs might not bloom. This could include improper storage conditions, insufficient sunlight, or lack of nutrients. Review the care guidelines and adjust your practices accordingly.