What To Know
- Using a spade or shovel, carefully insert the blade into the soil about 6 inches away from the base of the plant.
- Once the soil is loosened, gently lift the bulbs out of the ground using your hands or a spade.
- Dig a hole that is twice the width of the bulb and deep enough to allow the top of the bulb to be just below the soil surface.
Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and lush foliage, are a beloved addition to any garden. To ensure their continued beauty, it’s essential to know how to dig up calla lily bulbs. Whether you’re dividing overgrown clumps or preparing them for winter storage, this in-depth guide will provide you with all the knowledge and techniques you need.
When to Dig Up Calla Lily Bulbs
The ideal time to dig up calla lily bulbs is in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has turned yellow and died back. This is when the bulbs are dormant and contain the most energy for the next growing season.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
- Spade or shovel
- Bucket or container
- Sharp knife or pruners
- Gloves
- Mulch or compost
Step-by-Step Guide to Digging Up Calla Lily Bulbs
1. Prepare the Area
Clear away any debris or weeds around the calla lily plants. Using a spade or shovel, carefully insert the blade into the soil about 6 inches away from the base of the plant.
2. Loosen the Soil
Gently loosen the soil around the bulbs by rocking the blade back and forth. Avoid damaging the bulbs or roots.
3. Lift the Bulbs
Once the soil is loosened, gently lift the bulbs out of the ground using your hands or a spade. Be careful not to break any of the roots.
4. Remove Excess Soil
Shake off any excess soil from the bulbs. If there are any dead or damaged roots, carefully trim them off with a sharp knife or pruners.
5. Divide Overgrown Clumps (Optional)
If the calla lily clumps have become overgrown, you can divide them to create new plants. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the clump into smaller sections, ensuring each section has at least one bulb and some roots.
6. Replant or Store the Bulbs
If you’re not replanting the bulbs immediately, store them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Place the bulbs in a bucket or container filled with slightly moist mulch or compost. Keep the bulbs at a temperature between 40-50°F (4-10°C).
Replanting Calla Lily Bulbs
1. Choose a Planting Site
Select a planting site that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-drained soil.
2. Prepare the Soil
Amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or manure. This will help improve drainage and provide nutrients for the bulbs.
3. Plant the Bulbs
Dig a hole that is twice the width of the bulb and deep enough to allow the top of the bulb to be just below the soil surface. Place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing up.
4. Fill the Hole
Fill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the bulb. Water the newly planted bulbs thoroughly.
5. Mulch
Spread a layer of mulch around the bulbs to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Care for Dug-Up Calla Lily Bulbs
Whether you’re replanting or storing the bulbs, proper care is essential for their health and longevity.
- Replanted Bulbs: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the bulbs every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Stored Bulbs: Check the bulbs regularly for any signs of rot or disease. If you notice any issues, discard the affected bulbs.
The Bottom Line: Embark on the Journey of Calla Lily Cultivation
Digging up calla lily bulbs is a crucial aspect of their care, ensuring their continued beauty and vigor. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully dig up, divide, and replant or store your calla lily bulbs with confidence. Embrace the joy of cultivating these elegant flowers and enjoy their captivating blooms season after season.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Why should I dig up calla lily bulbs?
Digging up calla lily bulbs allows you to divide overgrown clumps, prepare them for winter storage, or propagate new plants.
2. How often should I dig up calla lily bulbs?
Calla lily bulbs should be dug up and divided every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy growth.
3. Can I dig up calla lily bulbs in the spring?
It’s not recommended to dig up calla lily bulbs in the spring as they are actively growing and can be easily damaged.
4. How long can I store calla lily bulbs?
Calla lily bulbs can be stored for up to 6 months in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.
5. What should I do if my calla lily bulbs have rotted?
Discard any rotted bulbs immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
