The Blush Calla Lily: A Care Guide for the Delicate Flower

Introduction

Blush calla lilies, with their soft pink hues and trumpet-shaped blooms, are a graceful addition to any garden or indoor space. While their elegance may captivate, these flowers require specific care to thrive. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to nurture your blush calla lilies, ensuring they flourish and bring joy to your surroundings.

Plant Varieties

There are several popular varieties of blush calla lily, each with its unique characteristics:

• ‘Green Goddess’: This variety features large, cup-shaped flowers with a pale pink blush and prominent white veins.
• ‘Pink Panther’: Known for its intense, deep pink blooms that resemble blooming tulips.
• ‘Dreamland’: A compact variety with medium-sized, salmon-pink flowers.
• ‘Albomaculata’: This variety has striking white-edged leaves and pale pink flowers.

Care Requirements

Light

Blush calla lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.

Water

Water your blush calla lilies regularly, especially during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Soil

Choose well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. For container growing, use a peat-based potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite for drainage.

Temperature

Blush calla lilies prefer warm temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect them from frost and extreme cold.

Fertilizer

Fertilize your blush calla lilies every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen, which can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Planting

• Choose a planting site that receives bright, indirect light.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
• Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen any circling roots.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
• Water the plant thoroughly after planting.

Maintenance

Pruning

After flowering, remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from putting its energy into seed production.

Dividing

Every 3-4 years, you can divide overgrown blush calla lilies to create new plants. Dig up the plant in the fall or spring and separate the rhizomes into individual pieces. Replant the rhizomes immediately.

Overwintering

In colder climates, blush calla lilies should be overwintered indoors. Dig up the rhizomes in the fall and store them in a cool, dry place. Replant them outdoors in the spring after the last frost.

Common Problems

Problem	Causes	Solutions
Yellowing leaves	Overwatering	Water less frequently and improve drainage.
Brown leaf tips	Underwatering or low humidity	Water more regularly and increase humidity by misting the leaves or using a humidifier.
Leaf spots	Fungal disease	Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
No blooms	Insufficient light or too much fertilizer	Provide more bright, indirect light and reduce fertilizer applications.

Conclusion

With proper care and attention, blush calla lilies will reward you with their delicate blooms and graceful form. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can nurture these beautiful flowers and enjoy their presence in your garden or home for many years to come.