Calla lilies are elegant and exotic flowering plants known for their distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers and lush, arrow-shaped foliage.

Here’s a guide on how to grow calla lilies from bulbs:

Planting Calla Lily Bulbs:

1. Selecting Bulbs:
   • Choose healthy calla lily bulbs. Look for firm bulbs without signs of damage or soft spots.
2. Timing:
   • Plant calla lily bulbs in the spring after the last frost date in your area, once the soil has warmed up.
3. Soil and Location:
   • Calla lilies prefer rich, well-draining soil with good organic content. They thrive in partial shade to full sun.
4. Planting:
   • Dig holes in the soil about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) deep and space the bulbs around 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart.
   • Place the bulbs with the pointed end facing upward and cover them with soil.
5. Watering:
   • Water the planted bulbs thoroughly but avoid waterlogging the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
6. Temperature and Care:
   • Calla lilies prefer moderate temperatures. Protect them from extreme heat or frost.
   • Mulch around the plants to maintain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
7. Fertilization:
   • Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season to support healthy growth and flowering. Follow the package instructions for application.
8. Blooming and Deadheading:
   • Calla lilies typically bloom in late spring to early summer. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and prolong the flowering period.
9. Post-Blooming Care:
   • After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally. Reduce watering once the foliage starts yellowing and withering.
   • In colder climates, consider lifting and storing the bulbs for winter.

Overwintering Calla Lily Bulbs:

• In areas with cold winters, dig up the calla lily bulbs after the foliage has died back naturally in autumn.
• Clean excess soil off the bulbs and let them dry for a few days in a well-ventilated area.
• Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place (around 40-50°F or 4-10°C) for the winter until it’s time to replant in the following season.

With proper care—ensuring well-draining soil, adequate water, sunlight, and attention to post-blooming storage in colder climates—you can enjoy the elegance of calla lilies in your garden year after year.