Storing Calla Lily Bulbs for Winter: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Calla lilies are eye-catching and popular flowering plants that add beauty to any garden. Their vibrant blooms come in diverse colors, making them a versatile choice for gardeners. However, these plants are not hardy in colder climates and require proper storage during winter to ensure their survival.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to store calla lily bulbs for winter, ensuring their health and vitality for the next growing season.

Preparing Calla Lily Bulbs for Storage

Lift and Clean the Bulbs

When the foliage of the calla lilies turns yellow and dies back in fall, it’s time to lift the bulbs from the ground. Use a garden fork to gently dig around the base of the plants, being careful not to damage the bulbs.

Once the bulbs are lifted, remove any excess dirt or debris by gently brushing them with your hands or a soft brush.

Cure the Bulbs

Place the cleaned bulbs in a warm, dry location with good air circulation. Spread them out in a single layer on a tray or in a shallow box.

Allow the bulbs to cure for two to three weeks, until they are firm and dry to the touch.

Storage Options for Calla Lily Bulbs

Indoor Storage

Controlled Temperature and Humidity

The ideal storage conditions for calla lily bulbs are a temperature of 45-55°F (7-13°C) and a relative humidity of 70-80%. A cool, dark basement or crawlspace can provide these optimal conditions.

Packing Materials

Store the cured bulbs in breathable packing materials such as peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust. These materials will help maintain moisture levels and prevent excessive drying.

Containers

Use open crates or cardboard boxes with ventilation holes to store the bulbs. This will ensure proper air circulation and prevent the buildup of moisture that could lead to rot.

Outdoor Storage

In-Ground Storage

In milder climates, it may be possible to store calla lily bulbs in the ground over winter. Choose a well-drained location with loose soil. Dig a hole about 6 inches deep and plant the bulbs, pointed side up.

Cover the bulbs with soil and mulch heavily with straw or leaves to insulate them from the cold.

Trench Storage

Another option for outdoor storage is to dig a trench about 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Place the cured bulbs in the trench, spacing them about 3 inches apart.

Cover the bulbs with soil and mulch heavily with straw or leaves for insulation.

Monitoring and Care During Storage

Regularly inspect the stored bulbs for any signs of rot or disease. Remove any affected bulbs immediately to prevent the spread of infection.

If the storage environment becomes too dry, lightly mist the bulbs with water to maintain moisture levels.

Keep the storage area well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture that could lead to rot.

Planting Calla Lily Bulbs in Spring

Once spring arrives and the danger of frost has passed, it’s time to plant the stored calla lily bulbs. Plant them in well-drained soil, spacing them about 12 inches apart.

Water the bulbs deeply after planting and continue to water regularly throughout the growing season, especially during dry periods.

Helpful Tips

Label the storage containers with the variety of calla lilies and the date to ensure accurate tracking.

Use fresh packing materials each year to prevent the buildup of pathogens.

Avoid storing calla lily bulbs near fruits or vegetables, as the ethylene gas they produce can damage the bulbs.

If you notice any signs of rot or disease during storage, discard the affected bulbs immediately and disinfect the storage containers with a bleach solution.

Conclusion

Properly storing calla lily bulbs for winter is essential for ensuring their survival and health for the next growing season. By following the detailed instructions outlined in this guide, you can successfully store your bulbs and enjoy the beauty of these vibrant flowers in your garden year after year.