Calla lilies are pretty sensitive souls—if there are too many pollutants or mineral buildups in their soil, they’ll let you know by stunted growth, refusing to bloom, or even wilting away entirely. To keep yours happy and healthy, you should give it a fresh start by repotting it at least once a year.
The Best Time to Repot
If you ask the pros, they’ll tell you that spring is the absolute best time to repot your Calla lily. After its winter nap, the plant is ready to wake up, making it the perfect moment to move your Calla into fresh soil. Over time, old potting mix accumulates salts and minerals from tap water and fertilizers that can stress the plant. Fresh soil acts like a reset button, providing the perfect environment for your Calla to thrive.
How to Repot Your Calla Lily Like a Pro
- Gently remove the Calla from its old pot.
- Carefully trim back any excessively long or circling roots.
- Rinse the old soil off the roots under lukewarm running water.
- Give the pot a thorough scrubbing.
- Fill the pot with high-quality, fresh potting soil.
- Place the bulb (rhizome) in the pot so it sits about two to three inches (5–7 cm) below the surface.
- Cover the bulb with soil.
- Press the soil down firmly to remove air pockets.
- Finish up by giving the pot a good soak in a water bath to hydrate the roots.
Choosing the Right Pot
When it comes to picking a home for your indoor Calla, size matters! You want a pot that offers about an inch or so of space all the way around the bulb. Before you plant, make sure to give the Calla’s pot a good wash—even if it’s brand new. The same goes for any tools you’re using. Keeping everything clean helps prevent nasty germs or fungi from hitching a ride onto your plant.
Safety Tips for Handling Your Calla
A quick heads-up: Calla lilies are actually toxic! Always wear gloves when you’re repotting or pruning, as the sap can cause some really unpleasant skin irritation. It’s also a smart move to lay down some newspaper or a tarp while you work. This keeps any stray sap off your floors where curious pets or kids might come into contact with it.
