Calla Lily Bulbs for Sale in Bulk: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped flowers and lush foliage, are a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Whether you’re a commercial grower, a landscape designer, or a home gardener looking to create a stunning display, purchasing calla lily bulbs in bulk can be an economical and rewarding option.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision about buying calla lily bulbs in bulk. We’ll cover everything from bulb selection to planting tips and care instructions, ensuring your calla lilies thrive and bloom beautifully for seasons to come.

Bulb Selection

Varieties

Calla lilies come in various varieties, each with unique characteristics. The most common types include:

• Yellow Calla Lily (Zantedeschia elliottiana): Features large, bright yellow flowers on tall, sturdy stems.
• Pink Calla Lily (Zantedeschia rehmannii): Produces delicate pink flowers with a soft, velvety texture.
• White Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica): Known for its classic white flowers that symbolize purity and innocence.
• Black Calla Lily (Zantedeschia zantedeschia ‘Black Magic’): A dramatic variety with deep purple to almost black flowers.
• Mini Calla Lily (Zantedeschia miniata): Compact and versatile, perfect for containers or hanging baskets.

Bulb Size

The size of the bulb can impact the size and quality of the flowers it produces. Larger bulbs (larger than 2.5 inches in diameter) typically produce more and larger flowers than smaller bulbs.

Bulb Quality

When selecting bulbs in bulk, it’s important to choose healthy, firm bulbs that are free of pests, diseases, or visible damage. Avoid bulbs that are soft, shriveled, or have any signs of bruising.

Planting and Care

Planting Time

Calla lily bulbs should be planted in the spring in most climates. The ideal planting time is when the soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C) and there is no longer a risk of frost.

Planting Depth

Plant the bulbs with the pointed end up, 2-3 inches deep and 6-12 inches apart. Cover the bulbs with soil and water thoroughly.

Soil Requirements

Calla lilies prefer well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.

Watering

Water the calla lilies regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilizing

Feed the calla lilies every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Sunlight

Calla lilies grow best in partial shade, receiving around 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. Protect them from strong afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.

Temperature and Humidity

Calla lilies prefer warm and humid conditions. They grow well in USDA hardiness zones 8-11. In colder climates, calla lilies can be grown as annuals or overwintered indoors.

Benefits of Buying in Bulk

Purchasing calla lily bulbs in bulk offers several advantages, including:

• Cost Savings: Buying in bulk can significantly reduce the cost per bulb, making it an affordable way to create a large display.
• Time Efficiency: Ordering bulbs in bulk eliminates the need for multiple small orders, saving you time and effort.
• Wide Variety: Bulk suppliers typically offer a wider selection of varieties, allowing you to choose the perfect ones for your needs.
• Consistency: When buying in bulk, you can ensure that all the bulbs come from the same source, providing consistency in terms of size, quality, and performance.

Where to Buy Calla Lily Bulbs in Bulk

Several reputable online and local nurseries offer calla lily bulbs in bulk. Some popular options include:

• Brecks
• Flowerbulbs.com
• Holland Bulb Farms
• Van Meuwen
• Eden Brothers

Conclusion

Purchasing calla lily bulbs in bulk is an excellent way to add elegance and beauty to your garden or landscape. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can select healthy, high-quality bulbs and provide them with the necessary care to ensure they thrive and bloom magnificently. Whether you’re a commercial grower or a home gardener, buying calla lily bulbs in bulk can help you achieve your desired floral display while maximizing cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

Remember to choose varieties that suit your growing conditions, plant them at the right time and depth, and provide them with adequate water, fertilizer, and sunlight. With proper care, your calla lilies will reward you with stunning blooms that will brighten up your garden for years to come.