Yes, you can successfully grow beautiful calla lilies outdoors with simple, proven care steps. This guide covers everything beginners need to know about planting, watering, feeding, and protecting calla lilies in your garden for stunning blooms.
Dreaming of those elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms gracing your garden? Calla lilies, with their sophisticated beauty, can transform any outdoor space into a showstopper. But sometimes, getting them to thrive outside can feel a little tricky, especially for new gardeners. You might worry about the right soil, how much sun they need, or if they’ll survive the changing weather. Don’t let those worries get the better of you! Nurturing calla lilies outdoors is much simpler than it seems, and this guide will walk you through every step. From picking the perfect spot to ensuring they come back year after year, we’ll make sure your calla lilies flourish. Let’s get started on creating your own little paradise!
Blooming Beautifully: Your Essential Guide to Outdoor Calla Lily Care
Heralded for their striking, architectural form and vibrant colors, calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are a favorite for gardeners seeking a touch of elegance. While they are often seen in indoor arrangements, their potential for spectacular outdoor displays is undeniable. Bringing these beauties into your garden offers a unique charm that’s surprisingly achievable with the right knowledge. This guide is designed specifically for beginner gardeners, breaking down the essential care needed to ensure your calla lilies don’t just survive, but thrive outdoors. We’ll cover everything from planting their rhizomes to preparing them for the cooler months, ensuring you achieve those gorgeous, iconic blooms season after season. Get ready to transform your garden beds or containers into a vibrant display of nature’s artistry!
Understanding Your Calla Lily: A Gardener’s Overview
Before we dive into the ‘how-to,’ it’s helpful to understand what makes a calla lily tick. These aren’t true lilies; they belong to the Araceae plant family, which also includes plants like peace lilies and anthuriums. Calla lilies grow from rhizomes, which are essentially underground stems that store food and energy. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and tend to thrive in conditions that mimic their native marshy habitats in South Africa, but with proper care, they adapt wonderfully to most garden settings. Knowing their origins gives us clues about their needs – they love hydration but hate soggy feet!
Choosing the Right Location for Your Outdoor Calla Lilies
Location is paramount for happy calla lilies. They are sun-lovers, but with a caveat. They perform best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, especially in cooler climates. However, in regions with scorching afternoon sun, providing some partial shade during the hottest part of the day will prevent their leaves from scorching and wilting.
Sunlight Requirements: Aim for full sun to partial shade. Morning sun is ideal.
Soil Drainage: Crucial! Calla lilies hate sitting in waterlogged soil, which can lead to rhizome rot. If your garden soil is heavy clay, amending it with compost and sand will improve drainage.
Protection from Wind: Strong winds can damage their elegant, tall stems and large leaves. Planting them in a somewhat sheltered spot or alongside other plants can offer protection.
For apartment dwellers or those with limited garden space, containers are a fantastic option. Ensure your chosen pots have drainage holes. A good container mix, often already amended with perlite or vermiculite, provides excellent drainage.
Planting Calla Lily Rhizomes Outdoors: A Step-by-Step Guide
Planting calla lily rhizomes is straightforward and rewarding. The best time to plant is in the spring, after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
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Prepare the Rhizomes
Inspect your calla lily rhizomes. Look for any signs of damage or rot. If the rhizomes look a bit dry and shriveled, you can soak them in lukewarm water for a few hours (no more than 6) to rehydrate them before planting. Don’t soak them for too long, as this can cause rot.
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Choose Your Planting Method
You can plant calla lilies directly in the ground or in containers. For in-ground planting, dig a hole about 4-6 inches deep and about 12-18 inches apart, depending on the variety and how full you want the planting to look. For containers, use a pot at least 8-10 inches in diameter for a single rhizome, or larger for multiple. Again, dig holes about 4-6 inches deep.
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Position the Rhizome Correctly
Calla lily rhizomes have a distinct top and bottom. The top has small, bud-like “eyes” and tends to be a bit concave. The bottom is where roots will emerge and is usually more rounded. Plant the rhizome with the “eyes” or the concave side facing upwards. If you can’t distinguish the top, don’t worry too much, as they can often find their way, but planting them correctly gives them a head start.
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Bury and Water
Cover the rhizome with about 4-6 inches of soil. Gently firm the soil around it. Water the area thoroughly. If planting in containers, ensure water drains freely from the bottom.
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Mulch (Optional but Recommended)
Adding a layer of mulch (like wood chips or straw) around the planted area helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature more consistent. Keep the mulch a little away from the immediate base of the emerging sprouts.
Once planted, be patient. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to over a month for sprouts to appear, especially if the soil is still cool. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy during this waiting period.
Watering Your Outdoor Calla Lilies for Optimal Growth
Water is essential for calla lilies, but overwatering is a common pitfall. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during their active growing and blooming season.
Frequency: Water deeply whenever the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch. This might mean watering several times a week during hot, dry spells, or less frequently in cooler, more humid weather.
Method: Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage excessively, which can encourage fungal diseases. Drip irrigation or a soaker hose is ideal for consistent, targeted watering.
Container Plants: Container-grown calla lilies tend to dry out much faster than those in the ground and will likely require more frequent watering. Always check the soil moisture before watering.
Dormancy: As the plant begins to yellow and die back in the fall, reduce watering significantly. This signals the start of their dormancy period.
A good indicator of thirst is when the leaves begin to droop slightly. However, ensure this isn’t due to excessive heat, as they can droop in extreme temperatures even with adequate moisture.
Feeding Your Calla Lilies: Nourishing for Blooms
Calla lilies are moderate feeders, and a little balanced fertilization goes a long way in promoting healthy growth and abundant blooms.
When to Feed: Start feeding a few weeks after you see new growth emerge in spring. Continue feeding every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season until the blooms start to fade or the foliage begins to yellow.
What to Use: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or similar) works well. Alternatively, you can use a fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants. Many gardeners find success with organic options like compost tea or a top dressing of compost.
Application: Apply liquid fertilizers according to the package instructions, usually diluted in water. If using granular fertilizer, apply it around the base of the plant and water it in well. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, or even burn the roots.
For container plants, you’ll likely need to fertilize more regularly because nutrients leach out with frequent watering. A good schedule for containers is to use a diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Soil and Mulch: The Foundation for Healthy Roots
Calla lilies thrive in rich, well-draining soil. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, generally between 6.0 and 7.0.
In-Ground Beds: If your soil is heavy clay, amend it generously with organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or leaf mold. Mixing in some coarse sand can also improve drainage. Raised beds are an excellent option for areas with very poor drainage. You can create your own ideal soil mix for raised beds using roughly 50% good quality topsoil and 50% compost.
Containers: Use a high-quality potting mix designed for containers. You can enhance drainage by adding perlite or coarse sand to your potting mix.
Mulching: As mentioned earlier, a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around your calla lilies is highly beneficial. It helps to:
Conserve soil moisture.
Suppress weed growth.
Regulate soil temperature, keeping roots cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil.
Ensure the mulch is kept a few inches away from the base of the plant stem to prevent rot. Organizations like the Oregon State University Extension Service offer comprehensive advice on the benefits and types of mulch.
Sunlight, Shade, and Temperature: Finding the Sweet Spot
Calla lilies are adaptable, but understanding their preferences will lead to the best performance.
Sunlight: As discussed, 6+ hours of direct sun is ideal for most varieties. In very hot climates (where summer temperatures consistently exceed 85°F or 29°C), afternoon shade is crucial. This can be provided by taller plants, a fence, or a structure.
Temperature: Calla lilies prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. They are not frost-tolerant. If you experience early or late frosts, be prepared to protect your plants.
Humidity: They appreciate humidity, but good air circulation is also important to prevent disease. Avoid overcrowding plants.
Pest and Disease Management: Keeping Your Calla Lilies Healthy
While generally robust, calla lilies can occasionally face issues. Vigilance and prompt action are key.
Common Pests:
Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that cluster on new growth. Blast them off with a strong spray of water or use insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: Tiny pests that thrive in dry conditions, causing stippling on leaves and fine webbing. Increase humidity and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and Snails: Often attracted to moist conditions, they can chew holes in leaves. Handpick them, use traps, or scatter slug bait (use pet-safe options if necessary).
Common Diseases:
Rhizome Rot: This is the most serious problem, caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a mushy base. Prevention is key by ensuring good drainage and not overwatering. If caught early, you might be able to dig up the rhizome, cut away the rotted parts with a sterile knife, and replant in fresh, well-draining soil or let it dry out completely before replanting.
Leaf Spot Fungi: Caused by excessive leaf moisture and poor air circulation. Keep foliage dry, provide good spacing, and remove affected leaves.
A healthy plant is less susceptible to pests and diseases. Ensure proper watering, feeding, and sunlight to keep your calla lilies strong.
Companion Planting for Calla Lilies
Companion planting can enhance the health and beauty of your calla lily display. Choosing plants that share similar growing conditions – moist soil, partial to full sun – is the best strategy.
Low-Growing Perennials: Plants like Hostas (in shadier spots), Ferns, and Coral Bells (Heuchera) can fill in around the base of calla lilies, help retain moisture, and add texture.
Annuals: Brightly colored annuals such as impatiens (for shade), petunias, or marigolds (for sun) can provide continuous color while your calla lilies are establishing or between blooming cycles.
Aquatic/Bog Plants: If you have a consistently moist area, consider plants like Astilbe, Irises, or even marginal aquatic plants for a bog garden effect.
Here’s a quick look at some beneficial companions:
| Plant Type | Examples | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Shade Tolerant Perennials | Hostas, Ferns, Astilbe | Fill in space, retain moisture, add contrasting foliage |
| Sun-Loving Annuals | Petunias, Marigolds, Zinnias | Provide continuous color, attract pollinators |
| Foliage Plants | Heuchera (Coral Bells), Ornamental Grasses | Add texture and color, suppress weeds |
Overwintering Outdoor Calla Lilies: Protecting for Next Season
Calla lilies are perennial in warmer climates (USDA hardiness zones 8-10). In cooler regions (zones 7 and below), their rhizomes need protection from freezing temperatures.
In Warmer Climates (Zones 8-10):
Continue watering until the foliage naturally yellows and dies back.
Once dormant, you can leave the rhizomes in the ground. Add a thick layer of mulch (4-6 inches) over the planting area for extra insulation.
Spring growth will usually emerge on its own once the soil warms.
In Cooler Climates (Zones 7 and below):
As fall frost approaches and the foliage dies back, it’s time to dig up the rhizomes.
Gently unearth the rhizomes with a garden fork or trowel, being careful not to damage them.
Brush off excess soil. If they are excessively muddy, rinse them lightly.
Allow the rhizomes to air dry in a cool, shaded, well-ventilated area for a few days. This helps prevent rot.
Store the dried rhizomes in a breathable medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or shredded newspaper in a cool, dark, dry place (around 45-55°F or 7-13°C). Cardboard boxes or paper bags work well for storage. Check them periodically for any signs of rot or drying out.
In spring, after the last frost, you can replant the rhizomes outdoors or start them indoors a few weeks prior to get a head start.
Caring for them through dormancy is vital for ensuring you have beautiful blooms the following year. The National Gardening Association provides seasonal gardening tips that can be helpful for planning overwintering strategies.
Common Troubleshooting for Outdoor Calla Lilies
Let’s address some common issues beginners encounter:
Problem: Leaves Yellowing Prematurely
Cause: Overwatering, underwatering, poor drainage, or natural end-of-season dieback.
Solution: Check soil moisture and drainage. Adjust watering schedule. If it’s late in the season and foliage is yellowing, this is normal as the plant prepares for dormancy.
Problem: No Flowers, Lots of Leaves
Cause: Too much nitrogen fertilizer, insufficient sunlight, or the rhizome is too small/young.
Solution: Switch to a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer (higher in phosphorus). Ensure the plant is getting at least 6 hours of sun. Larger rhizomes typically produce more flowers.
Problem: Drooping Leaves
Cause: Can be underwatering, extreme heat, or transplant shock.
Solution: Check soil moisture. If dry, water thoroughly. If it’s very hot, provide afternoon shade. If recently planted, give it time to establish.
Problem: Rhizomes Rotting in the Ground
Cause: Poor drainage and overwatering.
* Solution: This is often fatal if severe. Improve drainage by amending soil or replanting in raised beds or containers. Water sparingly and only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Calla Lily Care
Q1: When is the best time to plant calla lily rhizomes outdoors?
A1: The best time to plant calla lily rhizomes outdoors is in the spring, after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. This typically falls between April and June, depending on your local climate.
Q2: How much sunlight do calla lilies need when grown outdoors?
A2: Calla lilies prefer full sun to partial shade. They generally need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom well. In very hot climates, afternoon shade can protect them from scorching.
Q3: My calla lilies have yellow leaves. What’s wrong?
A3: Yellowing leaves can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, poor drainage, or the natural end of the growing season as the plant goes dormant. Check your watering
