Growing Gorgeous Calla Lilies from Seeds or Bulbs

Calla lilies are elegant, exotic flowers that make a stunning addition to any garden. Their trumpet-shaped blooms and large, arrow-shaped leaves command attention. While calla lilies are typically propagated by dividing bulbs, you can also grow these beauties from seeds.

A Bit About Calla Lilies

Calla lilies belong to the Araceae family and are native to South Africa. The botanical name is Zantedeschia. There are several species, including:

• Z. aethiopica – Common calla lily
• Z. elliottiana – Yellow calla lily
• Z. rehmannii – Pink calla lily

In temperate climates calla lilies are grown as bulbs. They spread by underground rhizomes and go dormant in winter. The colorful cultivated varieties are hybrids, bred from the common calla lily.

Calla lilies thrive in zones 7-11 They prefer rich, moist soil and partial shade. Give them plenty of water during the growing season In areas with freezing winters, calla bulbs must be dug up and stored indoors over winter.

Growing Calla Lilies from Seeds

Though calla lilies are typically propagated by division you can also grow them from seeds. Here’s how

• Allow seed pods to fully mature on the plant. They will turn yellow and soft when ripe.

• Carefully open pods and remove seeds. Rinse off the sticky, jelly-like coating.

• Place seeds in a damp paper towel and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. This cold stratification mimics winter dormancy and helps speed germination.

• Fill starter pots with seed starting mix. Plant 2 seeds per pot, 1⁄4 inch deep.

• Keep soil moist and provide bottom heat of 70-80°F. Germination takes 1-4 weeks.

• Once sprouted, remove the weaker seedling from each pot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

• When plants have 3-4 leaves, transplant into 4” pots. Fertilize lightly with diluted liquid fertilizer.

• Grow the first year without dormancy. Overwinter plants indoors, then move outside after the danger of frost.

From seeds, calla lilies take 2-3 years to reach flowering size. But it’s worth the wait for these exotic beauties!

Growing Calla Lilies from Bulbs

For quicker blooms, start with packaged calla bulbs from garden centers or mail order nurseries. Look for plump, blemish-free bulbs.

In spring, plant bulbs in organically rich soil. Bury at a depth 2 times the height of the bulb. Space 8-12 inches apart.

Water moderately after planting. Established plants need about 1-2 inches of water per week. Avoid wet feet.

Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Cease feeding 6 weeks before the first fall frost.

Before winter, dig up bulbs and allow to dry in indirect light for 1 week. Remove foliage and roots. Store in peat moss or vermiculite at 45-50°F.

The following spring, replant the bulbs outdoors after the danger of frost. Dividing every 2-3 years in spring will maintain plant vigor.

Growing Calla Lilies in Containers

Calla lilies also thrive in containers. Choose a pot at least 10-12” wide. Use a quality potting mix and provide drainage holes.

Give container plants the same care as in-ground. Move pots to a sunny, sheltered spot for winter. Or store bulbs indoors and replant in spring.

Troubleshooting Calla Lily Problems

Calla lilies are relatively trouble-free. But they may occasionally fall victim to:

• Root rot from overwatering
• Spider mites
• Aphids
• Slugs and snails

Good cultural practices are the best prevention. Make sure containers and gardens have adequate drainage. Remove any diseased foliage promptly. Use an organic pest control if pests become problematic.

The Takeaway

With their bold, tropical flair, calla lilies are sure to be noticed! You can grow these exotic beauties from seeds or bulbs. Take care to provide rich, moisture-retentive soil and adequate water. Give container plants the same conditions. With minimal care, calla lilies will reward you with remarkable blooms year after year.