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Calla lilies are admired for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms and striking foliage. While they are typically grown as perennials in warmer climates, they require special care to survive the winter in colder regions. This guide will provide you with the necessary steps to successfully overwinter calla lilies, ensuring they return healthy and beautiful in the spring.
Understanding Calla Lilies:
Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are tender perennials that prefer warm temperatures. In colder climates, they need protection to survive freezing temperatures. They grow from tubers, which store nutrients for the plant.
1. Preparing for Winter:
- Timing: Start preparing your calla lilies for winter in late fall, after the first frost but before the ground freezes.
2. Overwintering Calla Lilies in the Ground:
- Cut Back Foliage: After the foliage has died back due to frost, cut it down to about 2-3 inches above the ground. This helps reduce disease risk and prepares the plant for storage.
- Mulch: Apply a thick layer of mulch, such as straw, leaves, or wood chips, over the base of the plants. This insulation helps protect the tubers from freezing temperatures.
- Cover Plants: In areas with harsh winters, consider covering the plants with frost cloths or burlap for additional protection. Ensure the covering does not touch the plant directly and allows for ventilation.
3. Overwintering Calla Lilies in Pots:
- Move Indoors: If your calla lilies are in pots, bring them indoors before the first frost. Place them in a cool, dark area, such as a basement or garage, where temperatures are between 45-55°F (7-13°C).
- Reduce Watering: Water the plants sparingly during the winter months. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as the plant’s growth slows down and it requires less moisture.
4. Storing Calla Lily Tubers:
- Remove Tubers: After the foliage has died back, carefully dig up the tubers. Brush off excess soil and let the tubers dry in a cool, shaded area for a few days.
- Store Properly: Place the dried tubers in a container filled with peat moss, sand, or sawdust. Store the container in a cool, dry place where temperatures remain above freezing. Ensure the tubers are not exposed to moisture, which can cause rot.
5. Preparing for Spring:
- Check Tubers: Before replanting, inspect the stored tubers for any signs of rot or disease. Discard any damaged tubers and keep only the healthy ones.
- Replant: In spring, after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up, replant the calla lilies in well-draining soil. Space them adequately to allow for their growth.
6. Monitor and Care:
- Spring Growth: As the weather warms, calla lilies will start to sprout new growth. Provide them with regular water and sunlight to support vigorous growth and blooming.
Conclusion:
Overwintering calla lilies involves careful preparation and protection to ensure they survive the winter and return vibrant in the spring. By following these steps, you can help your calla lilies endure the cold months and flourish once the growing season arrives. With proper care, your garden will once again be graced with the elegant blooms of calla lilies.
