Wintering Calla Lilies: How to Keep Your Plants Healthy During the Cold Months

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Calla lilies are beautiful and elegant plants that can add a touch of sophistication to any garden. These plants are typically associated with warmer climates, but with proper care, they can thrive even during the colder months. In this article, weâ€™ll explore some tips and tricks for wintering calla lilies so that you can enjoy their beauty all year round.

What are Calla Lilies?

Calla lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica) are perennial plants that are native to southern Africa. They are known for their large, funnel-shaped flowers and lush, green foliage. Calla lilies come in a variety of colors including white, pink, yellow, and purple, and they bloom from late spring to early fall.

Preparing Your Calla Lilies for Winter

The first step to wintering your calla lilies is to prepare them for the cold months ahead. Here are some things you can do:

Cut Back the Foliage

Before the first frost, cut back the foliage on your calla lilies to about 3 inches above the soil line. This will help the plant conserve energy and focus on storing nutrients in the rhizomes.

Remove Any Dead or Diseased Material

Inspect your calla lilies for any dead or diseased material and remove it. This will prevent any potential diseases from spreading to the healthy parts of the plant.

Divide and Repot Your Calla Lilies

If your calla lilies have grown too large for their pot, you may want to consider dividing and repotting them. This will give the plants more room to grow and ensure that they receive the nutrients they need.

Storing Calla Lilies During Winter Months

Once you have prepared your calla lilies for winter, itâ€™s time to store them properly. Here are some tips:

Store in a Cool, Dark Place

Calla lilies need to be stored in a cool, dark place with a temperature between 45-55Â°F (7-13Â°C). A basement or garage is a good choice.

Keep the Soil Moist but Not Wet

Make sure the soil around your calla lilies stays moist but not wet during the winter months. Water sparingly, only when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Check on Your Plants Periodically

Check on your calla lilies periodically throughout the winter months to make sure they are healthy. Look for signs of mold, fungus, or pests.

Bringing Calla Lilies Back to Life in Spring

When spring arrives, itâ€™s time to bring your calla lilies back to life. Hereâ€™s what you can do:

Plant Your Calla Lilies

In early spring, when the threat of frost has passed, plant your calla lilies outside in a sunny location with well-draining soil.

Fertilize Your Calla Lilies

Fertilize your calla lilies with a balanced fertilizer to provide them with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Water Your Calla Lilies

Water your calla lilies regularly, but be careful not to overwater them. They prefer moist soil but will rot if the soil is too wet.

FAQs

Q: Can I leave my calla lilies outside during the winter?

A: It depends on the climate in your area. If you live in a region with mild winters, you may be able to leave your calla lilies outside. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters, itâ€™s best to bring them inside or store them in a cool, dark place.