| Gardening in containers is my preferred method of gardening. You can control the soil, the moisture level, fertilization, and best of all, you can re-arrange the containers to get a whole new look to your garden. Calla lillies (Zantedeschia) are originally from South Africa and do not tolerate cold winter weather. You can leave them in the pots all year around in your mild winter climate, but they need a dry dormant period every year. After blooming, when the leaves begin to yellow, the plants should be rested by gradually reducing water, and allowing them to dry out. You don't need to unpot them, just move the pots to a place protected from rain and remember not to water them while they're resting. You can begin watering them in the early spring and they will literally spring to life, producing healthy new leaves and flowers. Replant your calla lily rhizomes in fresh new potting soil, but don't water them and don't moisten the soil before use. The plan is to all them to rest - which they won't do in a plastic bag. Your plants will grow in full sun to light afternoon shade. Keep the soil moist during their growing period (spring until the leaves yellow and die). Best wishes with your Calla Lilies! |
