Callas aren’t just for your windowsill! While they make fantastic houseplants, these elegant beauties also thrive right in your garden beds. Just keep in mind that most Calla lilies aren’t fans of the cold, so you’ll need to bring them indoors to a cozy spot once winter rolls around.
Potting Your Calla Bulbs
If you’re looking to brighten up a sunny window, potting your Callas is a breeze. Here’s how to get them started:
- Give your pot a good scrub to make sure it’s nice and clean.
- Fill it up with some fresh, high-quality potting soil.
- Place the bulb (rhizome) in the soil with the pointed side facing up.
- Gently press the soil down around it to tuck it in.
- Make sure the very tip of the bulb is still peeking out just a bit above the soil line.
- Give it a good soak by placing the pot in a water bath.
- Let any excess water drain away completely—Callas don’t like soggy feet!
Planting Calla Bulbs in the Garden
Timing is everything when it comes to moving your Callas outdoors. Wait until after the last frost—usually around mid-May—since these plants are pretty sensitive to the cold. Dig a hole about two to three inches deep. Just like with the potted version, you’ll want the tip of the bulb to stick out slightly from the ground.
Pro tip: If you want flowers earlier in the season, start your bulbs in pots indoors around March. By the time you transplant them outside, they’ll have a head start on blooming!
Storing Bulbs for the Winter
Don’t wait for the first frost to bite! By October, it’s time to dig up your garden Callas. Since most varieties aren’t hardy, they need a proper winter nap in a protected spot. This dormant period is actually the secret to getting those gorgeous blooms again next year.
Start by trimming off the foliage and gently brushing the dirt off the bulbs. Let them dry out thoroughly. Once they’re dry, store them in a cool, dark place for about two to three months.
If you have potted Callas, you can let them overwinter right in their containers. Simply stop watering and fertilizing, and let the soil dry out completely. Move the pot to a draft-free, cool spot (around 50°F is perfect). Just remember: while they’re resting, no water or “food” allowed!
