From Soil to Bloom: How to Grow Calla Lilies Outdoors in the UK and Transform Your Outdoor Space
What To Know
- The best time to plant calla lilies outdoors in the UK is from April to May, after the last frost.
- Move your container-grown calla lilies to a frost-free location, such as a greenhouse or a cool, well-lit room.
- Cut back the foliage to ground level and cover the planting area with a thick layer of mulch (straw, bark chips, or leaves) to insulate the rhizomes.
The elegant beauty of calla lilies, with their trumpet-shaped blooms and glossy leaves, is a sight to behold. But how to grow calla lily outdoors UK? This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully cultivate these captivating flowers in your UK garden.
Understanding Calla Lilies
Calla lilies, despite their name, aren’t true lilies. They belong to the genus Zantedeschia, native to South Africa. These plants thrive in moist, fertile conditions and appreciate ample sunlight.
Choosing the Right Calla Lily Variety
The first step in your calla lily journey is choosing the right variety. Several varieties are suitable for UK gardens, each with unique characteristics:
- Ethiopian Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica): This classic variety features large, white flowers and can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. They are hardy and can tolerate some frost.
- Yellow Calla Lily (Zantedeschia elliottiana): This variety produces vibrant yellow flowers and grows to about 60 cm tall. It’s less hardy than the Ethiopian Calla Lily but can be grown in containers with winter protection.
- Pink Calla Lily (Zantedeschia rehmannii): This variety boasts delicate pink flowers and grows to about 45 cm tall. It’s the most sensitive to frost and should be grown in containers for easier winter protection.
Planting Your Calla Lilies
Once you’ve chosen your variety, it’s time to plant them. The best time to plant calla lilies outdoors in the UK is from April to May, after the last frost.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a suitable location: Calla lilies prefer a sunny spot with partial shade in the afternoon. They need well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter.
2. Prepare the planting area: Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the rhizome.
3. Amend the soil: Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
4. Plant the rhizome: Place the rhizome horizontally in the hole, with the growing points facing upwards.
5. Backfill the hole: Cover the rhizome with soil and gently firm it down.
6. Water thoroughly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Nurturing Your Calla Lily Blooms
Calla lilies are relatively easy to care for once planted. Here’s what you need to do to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowers:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy.
- Fertilizing: Feed your calla lilies with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (April to September).
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Protecting Calla Lilies Through Winter
Calla lilies are not fully hardy in the UK, so they need protection during winter. Here’s how to ensure their survival:
- Container-grown calla lilies: Move your container-grown calla lilies to a frost-free location, such as a greenhouse or a cool, well-lit room.
- In-ground calla lilies: Cut back the foliage to ground level and cover the planting area with a thick layer of mulch (straw, bark chips, or leaves) to insulate the rhizomes.
Propagating Your Calla Lilies
Calla lilies can be easily propagated through division. Here’s how to do it:
1. Choose the right time: The best time to divide calla lilies is in spring, just before new growth emerges.
2. Dig up the rhizome: Carefully dig up the rhizome and gently brush off any excess soil.
3. Divide the rhizome: Use a sharp knife to cut the rhizome into sections, each with at least one growing point.
4. Replant the divisions: Plant the divisions in the same way as you would a new calla lily.
Calla Lily Troubles: Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Calla lilies are generally pest and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to a few problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the plants, causing stunted growth and leaf discoloration. Control aphids with insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use slug pellets or traps to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This fungal disease occurs in waterlogged soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Calla Lily Magic: A Triumph of Beauty and Resilience
Growing calla lilies outdoors in the UK is a rewarding experience. With careful planning, proper care, and a touch of patience, you can enjoy the beauty of these elegant flowers for years to come. Their resilience and vibrant colors are a testament to their adaptability and the magic they bring to any garden.
Information You Need to Know
Q: When is the best time to plant calla lilies in the UK?
A: The best time to plant calla lilies outdoors in the UK is from April to May, after the last frost.
Q: How much sunlight do calla lilies need?
A: Calla lilies prefer a sunny spot with partial shade in the afternoon.
Q: How often should I water my calla lilies?
A: Water your calla lilies regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy.
Q: How do I protect my calla lilies from frost?
A: For container-grown calla lilies, move them to a frost-free location. For in-ground calla lilies, cut back the foliage and cover the planting area with mulch.
Q: Can I grow calla lilies in pots?
A: Yes, calla lilies can be grown in pots. Choose a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.