Growing Non-GMO Mixed Calla Lily Bulbs

Calla lily bulbs are best planted in the spring after all danger of frost has passed, as they prefer warm soil and air temperatures. Choose a location with well-draining soil that has been enriched with compost or organic matter. If planting directly into the ground, dig holes that are 2-4 inches deep and space the bulbs 12-18 inches apart to allow room for the plants to spread. Calla Lily Bulbs may also be planted in containers. Plant one tuber per 12 inches of container. Calla lilies can also thrive in containers, making them an excellent choice for patios or areas with poor soil. When planting, place the bulb with the pointed side up and gently cover it with soil, avoiding compacting the area to ensure good drainage.

Calla lilies prefer full sun in cooler climates but benefit from partial shade in hotter areas to prevent scorching. Water the bulbs deeply after planting and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy during the growing season. Applying a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a high-phosphorus formula to encourage strong blooms. Regularly check for pests like aphids or spider mites and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary. Deadheading spent flowers isn't strictly necessary but can improve the plant's appearance. Avoid pinching or heavy pruning, as calla lilies naturally grow into tidy clumps.

Calla lilies pair beautifully with ferns, hostas, and astilbes, as these companions share similar preferences for moist, partially shaded environments. In sunny locations, plant them alongside bright annuals like petunias or marigolds for a vibrant display. Avoid overcrowding your calla lilies, as they thrive with good airflow and ample room to grow. If planting in a container, ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and choose a pot that’s at least 12 inches in diameter for each bulb. Regularly inspect for signs of fungal diseases, especially in humid climates, and avoid overhead watering to minimize risks.

In USDA zones 8-10, calla lilies can remain in the ground year-round as they are perennial in these climates. To protect them during cooler months, apply a layer of mulch over the planting area to insulate the bulbs from temperature fluctuations. Reduce watering during the winter to prevent rot, as the plants will naturally go dormant. They will regrow in the spring as temperatures rise.

In zones 3-7, calla lilies must be lifted and stored indoors over winter, as they cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. After the first frost, dig up the bulbs carefully, leaving about 1–2 inches of stem attached. Allow them to dry in a cool, shaded place for a few days, then remove any excess soil and trim back the remaining foliage. Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place (around 50 F), such as a basement or garage, in a box filled with peat moss, sawdust, or vermiculite. Replant the bulbs in the spring when the danger of frost has passed, and they will continue to thrive.

Mixed Calla Lily Bulbs in the Flower Garden

Calla lilies are cherished in flower gardens for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms and lush, arrow-shaped foliage. Their diverse color palette adds vibrant interest to garden beds, borders, and containers. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, calla lilies are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in various conditions, making them suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Their ability to grow in moist environments also makes them ideal for planting near water features or in rain gardens.

Harvesting Mixed Calla Lily Bulbs

Calla lilies are highly valued in floral design for their striking appearance and longevity as cut flowers. To achieve the best vase life, it's recommended to harvest the flowers when the spathes are fully colored but before they have fully unfurled. Using a sharp knife or pruning shears, cut the stems at an angle to maximize water uptake. Immediately place the cut stems in clean water to prevent air embolisms. In arrangements, calla lilies can stand alone as a focal point or be combined with other flowers to create sophisticated bouquets. Their sturdy stems and unique form allow for versatile design possibilities, from minimalist displays to elaborate compositions.

About Mixed Calla Lily Bulbs

The genus Zantedeschia, commonly known as calla lilies, is native to southern Africa, including countries like South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. The name "calla" is derived from the Greek word for beauty.

Historically, calla lilies have been associated with various symbolic meanings, including purity, rebirth, and resurrection, and have been featured in art and literature across cultures. In the 19th century, hybridization techniques led to the development of various colored varieties beyond the original white species, expanding their popularity in horticulture and floral design.

All parts of the calla lily plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested, causing symptoms such as burning sensations, swelling, and gastrointestinal distress. Therefore, it's important to handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

The calla lily "flower" is not a true flower but a spathe, which is a modified leaf or bract that surrounds the plant’s actual flowers. These tiny, inconspicuous flowers are clustered on the central spike, called the spadix, inside the spathe.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Calla Lilies remind me of Easter. The traditional white blooms are heavily associated with religious imagery in my mind. By the way, in order to have them blooming by Easter, you should start the bulbs indoors in pots around late January or early February!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Mixed Calla Lily Bulbs Per Package:

• 5 Bulb Bag

Non-GMO Mixed Calla Lily Bulbs are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.