Calla Lily Questions
jrgardner
18 years ago
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plantfreak
18 years agoRelated Discussions
Calla lily question
Comments (1)Callas are neither a bulb or a lily but rather a rhzomatous perennial native to South Africa. They are are closely related to peace lilies and other members of the arum family. There are a couple of species of hardier callas that will grow in ground in warmer zones but most callas and especially the colored ones are treated as summer flowering 'bulbs' like dahlias, etc. Ones that are purchased in bloom now have been greenhouse grown and forced into bloom early. And it is entirely possible that the plant could be entering dormancy as they do go into a dormant period once the flowering is over. Generally, if planted in late spring for a summer bloom as is the case with other summer flowering bulbs and bulb-like plants, that dormancy period would coincide with colder weather and our fall/winter seasons. That being said, I'm not sure that dormancy is necessarily what's happening. Callas - greenhouse grown ones forced into early bloom - are going to be quite sensitive to cold temperatures. They are also very touchy about soil moisture....do not let the soil dry out but it also can't be soaking wet. I'd keep the plant indoors in bright, indirect light until all chance of frost is passed and nighttime termperatures remain above 50. Keep evenly moist. If the plant does go into full dormancy, you can store the bulbs and replant in fall for late spring/early summer blooms. Here is a link that might be useful: callas indoors...See MoreCalla lily question
Comments (2)Hi Deanna, I'm hoping someone who's experienced your exact circumstance chimes in. One question. Was your Calla exposed to temperatures in the 30's? I typically plant my Calla tubers in mid May, in ground and pots, and lift in Autumn just before or after first frost. Storing dry is very easy so I don't consider these annuals by any means. I've never purchased a potted Calla, in bloom or not, so an early dormancy isn't something I've experienced. My GUESS is by keeping yours indoors until your outdoor soil temp is in the 70's and after last frost you can get it to break dormancy. I'd keep it on the dry side until you've got new growth. Then normal Calla treatment. Lots of water, regular feeding and part sun if potted (or daily watering in full sun). If in ground, full sun with a good cover of mulch to keep the roots cool and wet. Are the leaves sword shaped, lanceolate?...See Morecalla lily question
Comments (3)Hmmm...so they are probably dead. I wonder why they all died, one at a time, throughout the winter? Next time I will let them go dormant in the fall and just winter store the bulbs. I haven't dug one up yet but will do that now. Here is a link that might be useful: My Country DIY Blog...See MoreCalla lily question.
Comments (3)Yes, unless you have some cold temps, the weather is changing and I know Georgia has been getting hit hard with snow and ice in some areas, crazy !!!...See MoreKatrinaG
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