Your cart is currently empty!
Calla Lily Bulbs: A Comprehensive Guide to Storing for Winter

Introduction
Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are stunning, elegant plants that add a touch of beauty to any garden. However, they are not hardy in colder climates and must be stored properly during the winter months to ensure their survival.
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide to storing calla lily bulbs for winter. We will cover the following topics:
- When to dig up calla lily bulbs
- How to clean and prepare calla lily bulbs for storage
- Different storage methods for calla lily bulbs
- Troubleshooting common storage problems
When to Dig Up Calla Lily Bulbs
The best time to dig up calla lily bulbs is after the first hard frost. This is because the bulbs have had time to go dormant and the foliage has died back.
To dig up the bulbs, use a garden fork to carefully lift them from the ground. Avoid damaging the bulbs.
How to Clean and Prepare Calla Lily Bulbs for Storage
Once the bulbs have been dug up, it is important to clean and prepare them for storage.
- Remove excess soil: Use your hands or a soft brush to remove any excess soil from the bulbs.
- Trim the foliage: Cut off any remaining foliage, leaving about 1 inch of stem.
- Inspect the bulbs: Examine the bulbs for any signs of damage or disease. Discard any damaged or diseased bulbs.
- Dry the bulbs: Place the bulbs in a warm, dry place to air dry for a few days.
Different Storage Methods for Calla Lily Bulbs
There are three main methods for storing calla lily bulbs over the winter:
- Indoors: Store the bulbs in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a basement or garage. Keep the temperature between 40-50°F (4-10°C).
- Outdoors: Store the bulbs in a well-drained location in the garden. Cover the bulbs with a layer of mulch to protect them from the cold.
- Refrigerated: Store the bulbs in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Keep the temperature around 35-40°F (2-4°C).
Indoor Storage
Indoor storage is the most common method for storing calla lily bulbs. To store bulbs indoors:
- Place the bulbs in a single layer in a shallow box or basket.
- Cover the bulbs with a layer of dry peat moss or vermiculite.
- Store the bulbs in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a basement or garage.
- Check the bulbs periodically for any signs of decay or sprouting.
Outdoor Storage
Outdoor storage is a good option for gardeners in mild climates. To store bulbs outdoors:
- Dig a hole in a well-drained location in the garden.
- Place the bulbs in the hole and cover them with a layer of soil.
- Cover the soil with a layer of mulch to protect the bulbs from the cold.
- Check the bulbs periodically for any signs of decay or sprouting.
Refrigerated Storage
Refrigerated storage is a good option for gardeners who do not have access to a cool, dark, and dry storage location. To store bulbs in the refrigerator:
- Place the bulbs in a plastic bag with a few holes for ventilation.
- Store the bag in the refrigerator at a temperature around 35-40°F (2-4°C).
- Check the bulbs periodically for any signs of decay or sprouting.
Troubleshooting Common Storage Problems
Here are some common storage problems that you may encounter and how to solve them:
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
Bulbs are rotting | Remove the affected bulbs and discard them. Check the remaining bulbs for any signs of decay. |
Bulbs are sprouting | Remove the sprouts and store the bulbs in a cooler location. |
Bulbs are drying out | Mist the bulbs with water and store them in a more humid location. |
Bulbs are freezing | Move the bulbs to a warmer location. |
Conclusion
Storing calla lily bulbs for winter is essential for ensuring their survival in colder climates. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully store your calla lily bulbs and enjoy their beautiful blooms next spring.
Leave a Reply