How to Care for Calla Lilies After Bloom

Calla lilies are one of the most elegant and exotic plants available for gardens and indoor settings. Once they've completed their blooming period, it's important to care for them properly to ensure healthy growth for next year and maintain their aesthetic appeal. Follow these steps to care for your calla lilies after they bloom.

Deadheading

Once the blooms have faded and withered, it's crucial to remove them promptly. This process, known as deadheading, not only improves the appearance of the plant but also encourages the production of new buds. To deadhead, find the stem where the spent flower attaches and cut it back to the nearest healthy leaf or node. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plant.

Watering

After the blooming period, reduce watering to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Calla lilies prefer consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and can be detrimental to the plant's health. During the dormant period in late summer, gradually reduce watering to allow the foliage to wither naturally.

Fertilizing

During the growing season, apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth. However, during the rest period (usually late summer to early spring), cease fertilizing to allow the rhizomes to store energy for the next growing season.

Post-Bloom Care

Once the blooming period is over, typically in late summer, begin reducing watering. Allow the foliage to wither naturally as it will continue to photosynthesize and feed the plant. In regions with cooler climates, you may need to dig up the rhizomes after the foliage has died back in the fall. Clean the rhizomes, allow them to dry for a few days, and then store them in a cool, dry place for about two months before replanting them in the spring.

Dormancy

Between late summer and early spring, the calla lilies will enter a dormant state. During this period, the plant looks almost lifeless, with the foliage drying up. Store the rhizomes in a cool (not cold), dark place for two months. Do not expose them to direct heat or moisture.

Once the danger of frost has passed in the spring, replant the rhizomes in a prepared garden bed or container. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. If your climate allows, you can leave the rhizomes in the ground, but it's still a good idea to monitor the soil moisture levels and provide minimal support during the growing season.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your calla lilies remain healthy and are ready to bloom again next year. Remember, proper post-bloom care is key to extending the life and beauty of these magnificent plants.