Expert Tips on Calla Lily Care: Can Calla Lily Bulbs Be Divided for More Blooms?
What To Know
- The best time to divide calla lily bulbs is during their dormant period, typically in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has died back.
- Not only does it allow you to expand your collection of these beautiful flowers, but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment and connection to your garden.
- While dividing calla lily bulbs is a great way to propagate these stunning flowers, it’s important to remember that there are other methods as well.
Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped flowers and lush foliage, are a popular choice for gardens and homes. But did you know that you can easily multiply your calla lily collection by dividing their bulbs? This simple technique allows you to create new plants from existing ones, expanding your garden with these stunning blooms.
Understanding Calla Lily Bulbs
Before we delve into the process of dividing calla lily bulbs, let’s first understand what these bulbs are and how they function. Calla lilies, despite their name, don’t actually produce bulbs in the traditional sense. Instead, they grow from a corm, a thickened underground stem that stores nutrients and energy for the plant. This corm is responsible for producing new shoots and flowers each growing season.
Why Divide Calla Lily Bulbs?
There are several reasons why you might want to divide your calla lily bulbs:
- Propagation: Dividing bulbs is the most effective way to create new plants from existing ones. This allows you to expand your calla lily collection without having to purchase new bulbs.
- Rejuvenation: Over time, calla lily corms can become overcrowded, leading to smaller blooms and reduced vigor. Dividing the corms allows you to separate the healthy, actively growing sections, resulting in more vigorous plants with larger flowers.
- Disease Control: Dividing bulbs can help to prevent the spread of diseases. By separating the corms, you can remove any infected or damaged sections, preventing the disease from affecting the entire plant.
When to Divide Calla Lily Bulbs
The best time to divide calla lily bulbs is during their dormant period, typically in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has died back. This is when the corms are at their most dormant and the plant is not actively growing.
How to Divide Calla Lily Bulbs
Follow these steps to successfully divide your calla lily bulbs:
1. Dig Up the Bulbs: Carefully dig up the corms using a garden fork or trowel. Be gentle to avoid damaging the corms.
2. Clean the Bulbs: Remove any excess soil and debris from the corms. Inspect the corms for any signs of disease or damage.
3. Separate the Corms: Look for natural divisions in the corms. These will typically appear as smaller, offshoots connected to the main corm. You can gently separate these offshoots using a sharp knife or your fingers.
4. Replant the Corms: Replant the divided corms in a well-drained, fertile soil. Space the corms about 6-8 inches apart. Water them thoroughly after planting.
Tips for Success
- Use a sharp knife or pruning shears: This will ensure a clean cut and minimize the risk of damaging the corms.
- Inspect the corms carefully: Look for any signs of disease or damage. Remove any affected sections to prevent the spread of disease.
- Replant the corms immediately: Don’t let the corms dry out after dividing them. Plant them as soon as possible to ensure their survival.
Caring for Divided Calla Lily Bulbs
Once you’ve divided and replanted your calla lily bulbs, it’s important to provide them with the proper care to help them establish and thrive.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize your calla lilies regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Sunlight: Calla lilies prefer partial shade to full sun. Protect them from scorching afternoon sun.
- Winter Protection: In colder climates, protect your calla lily bulbs from frost by covering them with mulch or bringing them indoors for the winter.
The Joy of Propagation
Dividing calla lily bulbs is a rewarding experience. Not only does it allow you to expand your collection of these beautiful flowers, but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment and connection to your garden. Watching your divided corms grow into healthy, blooming plants is a testament to your gardening skills.
A Final Thought: Beyond the Bulbs
While dividing calla lily bulbs is a great way to propagate these stunning flowers, it’s important to remember that there are other methods as well. You can also propagate calla lilies from seed or by taking cuttings. These methods may take a little longer, but they can be equally rewarding.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I divide calla lily bulbs in the spring?
A: It’s not ideal to divide calla lily bulbs in the spring, as they are actively growing during this time. Dividing them during their dormant period in late summer or early fall is much more successful.
Q: How often should I divide calla lily bulbs?
A: You should divide calla lily bulbs every 2-3 years to ensure optimal growth and flowering.
Q: Can I divide calla lily bulbs that are in pots?
A: Yes, you can divide calla lily bulbs that are in pots. Simply follow the same steps as for dividing bulbs in the ground.
Q: What should I do with the divided bulbs that I don’t plant?
A: You can store the divided bulbs in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them. They can be stored for several months without any problems.
Q: What are some common problems that can occur when dividing calla lily bulbs?
A: Some common problems that can occur include damage to the corms, disease, and pests. Be careful when handling the corms and inspect them for any signs of problems before replanting.