Can You Save Calla Lily Bulbs? Expert Tips for Winter Storage
What To Know
- Allow the rhizomes to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few days.
- You can store them in a paper bag, cardboard box, or even in a mesh bag.
- The darkness and cool temperature mimic the natural conditions the rhizomes experience during winter, keeping them in a dormant state.
Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped flowers and lush foliage, are a beloved addition to any garden. But what happens when the blooming season ends? Can you save calla lily bulbs for another year? The answer is a resounding yes! With a little care and attention, you can ensure your calla lilies return year after year, gracing your garden with their beauty.
Understanding Calla Lily Bulbs
Before diving into the specifics of saving calla lily bulbs, it’s crucial to understand what we’re actually dealing with. Calla lilies don’t technically have bulbs in the traditional sense. They have rhizomes, which are thick, fleshy underground stems that act as storage organs for nutrients and energy. These rhizomes are what we’ll be saving and re-planting.
When to Dig Up Your Calla Lily Rhizomes
The ideal time to dig up your calla lily rhizomes is after the foliage has died back in autumn, typically around late September or early October. This signals that the rhizomes have stored enough energy for dormancy and are ready to be lifted.
Preparing the Rhizomes for Storage
Once you’ve dug up your rhizomes, it’s time to prepare them for storage. Follow these steps:
1. Clean and Inspect: Gently brush off any excess soil and debris from the rhizomes. Inspect them for any signs of damage, disease, or pests. If you find any issues, cut away the affected areas with a clean, sharp knife.
2. Drying: Allow the rhizomes to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few days. This will help them harden and prevent rotting during storage.
3. Storing: Once dry, store your rhizomes in a cool, dark, and dry place. A basement or garage is ideal. You can store them in a paper bag, cardboard box, or even in a mesh bag.
The Importance of Proper Storage
Proper storage is key to ensuring your calla lily rhizomes remain healthy and viable for re-planting. Here’s why:
- Preventing Rot: The cool, dry environment prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to rot and fungal diseases.
- Maintaining Dormancy: The darkness and cool temperature mimic the natural conditions the rhizomes experience during winter, keeping them in a dormant state.
- Preserving Energy: Proper storage helps the rhizomes conserve their energy reserves, ensuring they have the strength to sprout and bloom the following year.
Re-Planting Your Calla Lily Rhizomes
When spring arrives, it’s time to re-plant your calla lily rhizomes. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Choose the Right Location: Calla lilies thrive in partial shade to full sun. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
2. Planting Depth: Plant your rhizomes with the growing tip facing upwards, about 2-3 inches deep in the soil. Space them about 12 inches apart.
3. Watering: Water your newly planted rhizomes thoroughly. They will need regular watering, especially during the first few weeks after planting.
4. Fertilizing: Give your calla lilies a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
Calla Lily Care for Abundant Blooms
To encourage abundant blooms, follow these care tips:
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flower stalks to encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilizing: Feed your calla lilies with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Protecting from Pests: Monitor your plants for pests like aphids, snails, and slugs. Treat any infestations promptly.
Time to Say Goodbye: The End of the Calla Lily’s Journey
While we’ve focused on saving your calla lily rhizomes, it’s important to remember that even with the best care, these plants have a finite lifespan. After several years, your calla lilies may start to decline in vigor and bloom production. This is a natural part of their life cycle. If you notice a significant decrease in bloom size or frequency, it might be time to start fresh with new rhizomes.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I save calla lily bulbs from a store-bought bouquet?
A: Unfortunately, it’s highly unlikely you can save calla lily bulbs from a store-bought bouquet. These flowers are often grown in a greenhouse and treated with chemicals to prolong their lifespan. The bulbs are not meant for re-planting.
Q: What if my calla lily rhizomes start to sprout before re-planting?
A: If you notice your rhizomes sprouting before you’re ready to re-plant, don’t worry. Simply pot them up in a container with potting mix and continue to care for them indoors until the weather is suitable for outdoor planting.
Q: Can I divide my calla lily rhizomes to create new plants?
A: Yes, you can divide your calla lily rhizomes to create new plants. Look for areas with healthy buds and carefully cut the rhizome with a sharp knife. Each piece should have at least one bud. Plant the divided rhizomes as you would new ones.
Q: How long can I store calla lily rhizomes before re-planting?
A: You can typically store calla lily rhizomes for several months, even up to a year, if you maintain proper storage conditions. However, it’s best to re-plant them as soon as possible to ensure optimal growth.
Q: What are the signs of a healthy calla lily rhizome?
A: A healthy calla lily rhizome should be firm, plump, and free from any signs of rot, disease, or pests. The growing tip should be intact and free of damage.