How do you plant arum lilies?

Getting Started with Arum Lilies: A Gardener’s Guide

Arum lilies, or calla lilies as some folks call them (botanically, that’s Zantedeschia if you want to get fancy), are just stunning, aren’t they? Those elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers – we call them spathes – and those lush green leaves can really bring a touch of class to any garden, patio, or even your living room. They hail from sunny South Africa, which gives you a clue about their likes and dislikes. Now, a word of caution: they’re beautiful, yes, but they’re also toxic, so keep that in mind if you have curious kids or pets around. Let’s dive into how to get these beauties growing!

Finding the Right Lily for You

First things first, you can’t just grab any old arum lily and expect it to thrive. You need to pick the right one for your neck of the woods. The classic white arum lily, Zantedeschia aethiopica, is a tough cookie and can handle a bit of cold, making it a good choice for planting directly in the ground if you live in a milder area. But those vibrant, colorful hybrids like Z. elliottiana and Z. rehmannii? They’re a bit more delicate. I’ve found they do best in pots, so you can whisk them indoors when winter comes knocking.

Timing is Everything

When should you actually get these lilies in the ground (or in their pots)? Spring or fall are your best bets. If you live where winters get frosty, hold off until spring after the last frost has passed. Trust me, those rhizomes won’t thank you if they get frozen. In warmer climates, planting in the fall gives them a head start to get their roots settled before winter.

Location, Location, Location

Arum lilies aren’t too fussy, but they do have preferences. Think moist, well-drained soil and a spot that gets either partial shade or full sun. They can handle full sun, especially if your summers are on the cooler side, but in hotter areas, a bit of shade is appreciated to prevent leaf scorch. Also, try to find a spot that’s sheltered from strong winds – nobody likes a lily getting blown about! And here’s a fun fact: some varieties are happy as clams growing right in the water, up to about a foot deep.

Getting Down and Dirty: Soil Prep

Now, let’s talk dirt. Arum lilies love soil that’s rich, full of yummy organic matter, and just a tad acidic to neutral (a pH of 6.0-7.0 is the sweet spot). Before planting, I always dig in a generous helping of well-rotted compost or manure. It works wonders! This not only helps with drainage but also feeds the plants with all the good stuff they need. If you’re going the container route, grab a good quality potting mix that drains well.

Planting Time: The Nitty-Gritty

Alright, here’s how to get those lilies planted:

Keeping Your Lilies Happy: Ongoing Care

• Watering: These lilies are thirsty fellas, especially when they’re actively growing. Keep that soil moist, but don’t drown them. Let it dry out just a tad between waterings to avoid root rot.
• Fertilizing: A little food goes a long way. I like to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer, but go easy on it. Too much fertilizer can actually do more harm than good. A 5-10-10 fertilizer works nicely.
• Mulching: A layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants is like a cozy blanket. It helps keep the moisture in, keeps the weeds down, and protects the roots.
• Deadheading: Once the flowers start to fade, snip them off. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms.
• Winter Prep: If you live in a cold area, you’ll need to dig up the rhizomes in the fall before it freezes. Let them dry out a bit, then store them in a cool, dry, dark place like a garage or basement where it stays around 50°F. Then, replant them in the spring. If you’re in a warmer climate, you can leave them right where they are.

Troubleshooting: When Things Go Wrong

• Root Rot: This is usually caused by too much water and not enough drainage. Make sure your soil drains well and don’t overwater.
• Yellow Leaves: Could be too much water, could be not enough light. Adjust your watering and make sure they’re getting the right amount of sun.
• Pests and Diseases: Arum lilies are generally pretty tough, but sometimes aphids, thrips, slugs, or snails might try to move in. Deal with them as needed. Fungal diseases can also pop up, so keep an eye out.
• No Flowers: Not enough light is usually the culprit. Make sure they’re getting enough sun or partial shade, depending on your climate.

Final Thoughts

Arum lilies are a fantastic addition to any garden or home. They’re not too demanding, and the reward is those gorgeous flowers and lush foliage. Just remember to be careful around kids and pets because they are toxic. Follow these tips, and you’ll be enjoying these beauties for years to come!