How do you propagate calla lilies?

Getting More of Those Gorgeous Calla Lilies: A Simple Guide to Propagation

Calla lilies. Just the name conjures up images of elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers and those lush, green leaves, right? They’re a real favorite for adding a touch of class to any garden or even brightening up a room. And guess what? Getting more of these beauties is easier than you might think! The secret lies in propagation. You’ve basically got two main routes: dividing the rhizomes (the underground stems) or starting from seed. Now, while you can grow them from seed, trust me, division is the way to go. It’s much faster.

So, what’s the deal with these rhizomes anyway? Well, think of them as the plant’s powerhouse. They’re thick, underground stems that store all the good stuff – nutrients – and they’re what sprout those roots and shoots that become new plants.

Why Bother Dividing?

Dividing calla lily rhizomes is the most popular way to get new plants, and for good reason. It’s like making a clone! You get a new plant that’s exactly like the parent, so you know you’re getting the same flower color and size. Growing from seed? That’s a whole different ballgame. It takes forever – like, up to three years before you see any flowers – and even then, you might not get the same results as the original plant.

Timing is Everything (Almost)

The best time to get your hands dirty and divide those rhizomes is either in the spring or the fall.

• Spring: As the weather warms up and the days get longer, calla lilies wake up from their winter nap and start growing like crazy. Dividing them in the spring gives them a whole season to get settled in and strong.
• Fall: Once the growing season is over and the lilies start to chill out for the winter, that’s another good time to divide them. They’ll get nice and cozy over the cooler months, ready to burst into growth when spring rolls around.

Rhizome Division: Let’s Get Started!

Okay, this is the fun part. Dividing rhizomes is pretty simple. Here’s the lowdown:

Growing from Seed: The Long Road

Okay, so you can grow calla lilies from seed, but be warned: it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

General TLC for Your New Calla Lilies

• Light: Calla lilies love sunshine, but they can also handle a bit of shade. If you live in a hot place, give them some shade in the afternoon. Indoor plants need at least 6 hours of bright, indirect light.
• Soil: They like rich, loose soil that drains well. Use a good-quality potting mix if you’re growing them in containers.
• Water: Keep the soil moist, especially when they’re growing, but don’t drown them! Too much water can cause rot.
• Food: Give them a little boost with a balanced liquid fertilizer every couple of weeks until the flowers fade.
• Downtime: After they’re done blooming, calla lilies need a rest. Cut back on the watering and let the leaves die back. If you live in a cold climate, dig up the rhizomes in the fall and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.

With a little bit of know-how and some patience, you’ll be swimming in gorgeous calla lilies in no time. Happy gardening!