Calla lilies, also known as arum lilies, may look exotic, but they’re surprisingly easy to grow! Despite their name, they’re not true lilies. They belong to the Zantedeschia genus, which originates in South Africa. Their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms come in a stunning array of colours, which look as aesthetic as a house decor or a patio plant.
If you want to brighten up your home or garden, you need to learn how to grow Calla lilies. This beautiful plant typically grows 1 to 3 feet tall, with each rhizome spreading about a foot in diameter. With the right care, they’ll reward you with long-lasting, breathtaking blooms.
Types Of Calla Lilies
Calla lilies come in different colours and varieties, which makes them a showstopper in any garden and home.
Purple Sensation
It’s a rich royal purple bloom with a light gold spadix, perfect for adding a touch of luxury.
Black Star
This one looks so mysterious and elegant. The flower is almost black with green foliage speckled in creamy white.
Morning Sun
It looks like A fiery sunrise in bloom, transitioning from deep orange to red along the petal edges.
Red Alert
This bold and brilliant firetruck red, with light variegation on its leaves is impossible to overlook!
Since calla lilies are often sold in mixed sets, choose a palette that compliments your existing garden theme or even matches your patio furniture. No matter what you choose, learning how to grow calla lilies ensures you make up your space.
How to Plant Calla Lilies
Calla lilies grow from thick rhizomes or fleshy roots, which are sold dormant in winter or spring. Ready-grown plants are also available in spring and summer, often already in full bloom, which makes them an easy choice for instant colouring.
For those starting with dormant rhizomes, plant them 8-10 cm deep in nutrient-rich, peat-free multi-purpose compost. For earlier blooms, pot them indoors and begin growth before transplanting outside after the last frost. If you are growing indoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by increasing their exposure to fresh air and sunlight each day. With proper care, how to grow calla lilies becomes effortless and rewards you with stunning flowers all season long.
How To Grow Calla Lilies
If you’re wondering how to grow calla lilies, start by buying rhizomes or ready-grown plants and plant them in pots filled with nutrient-rich compost. Choose a sunny spot and keep the soil consistently moist for vibrant blooms. As temperatures drop in autumn, bring the plants indoors to overwinter, then replant them the following year for another stunning display!
Light
For vibrant calla lilies, give them plenty of sunlight that can be full or partial. Light is essential to fuel their blooms! But if you’re in a hot climate with intense sun, plant them where they’ll catch some afternoon shade to prevent stress.
Water
Calla lilies need special attention to the soil. They love moist soil and good humidity to stay happy indoors and outdoors.
In most climates, they won’t need extra watering, but if you’re in a dry region or facing a drought, a soaker hose or drip irrigation can keep them flourishing.
Temperature & Humidity
Calla lilies grow best in warm regions where the temperature is at least 70°F (21°C). Humidity is just as important. It helps them retain moisture and withstand high heat. But in dry, arid regions, extreme temperatures can take a toll, so make sure to keep the environment humid for successful growth.
Soil
Plant calla lilies in well-draining, amended soil for the best results. These adaptable plants thrive in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clay. For optimal growth, aim for slightly acidic or neutral soil with a pH between 5.6 and 6.5. If you are growing them indoors, use high-quality potting mix in containers to keep them flourishing.
Fertilizer
Feed your calla lilies annually to keep them vibrant and healthy. Use a well-balanced fertilizer before they start flowering. You can use both granulated and liquid options depending on your needs. But once they’ve finished blooming, skip the fertilizer to avoid overfeeding.
Pests and Problems
Calla Lilies love water, which makes them attractive to pests like aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and Japanese beetles. Fortunately, these pests are easy to spot and manage. For a non-toxic approach, try handpicking larger insects or spraying them off with a strong water blast. To take it further, invite natural predators like beneficial insects and birds into your garden to help keep pests in check.
Propagation
You can also grow calla lilies from seed, but most gardeners opt to divide established plants every 3-5 years for identical flowers. Fall is the best time for this when the plants are dormant. Gently lift the rhizomes and cut the roots into sections. Make sure each division has at least one healthy, viable growing eye.
Repotting
If your calla lilies have outgrown their container, you need to repot them for their best growth. Fall is the best season to do repotting because the plants are dormant at this time. Repot every 1-2 years to divide and replant them into new or larger containers for continued growth and vitality.
