What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, transplanting calla lilies is a rewarding task that can enhance your outdoor space.
- You may need to transplant calla lilies to a new location due to changes in your garden design or to provide them with more optimal growing conditions.
- Place the calla lily or its divisions in the prepared hole, ensuring that the top of the rhizome is level with the soil surface.
Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms, are a beloved addition to any garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, transplanting calla lilies is a rewarding task that can enhance your outdoor space. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential steps and tips to ensure a successful transplant.
Why Transplant Calla Lilies?
Transplanting calla lilies offers several benefits:
- Propagation: Calla lilies can be propagated through division, and transplanting allows you to create new plants from existing ones.
- Rejuvenation: Over time, calla lilies may become overcrowded or decline in vigor. Transplanting allows you to rejuvenate them and promote healthy growth.
- Relocation: You may need to transplant calla lilies to a new location due to changes in your garden design or to provide them with more optimal growing conditions.
When to Transplant Calla Lilies
The best time to transplant calla lilies is during their dormant period, typically in late summer or early fall. This allows them to establish their root systems before the onset of winter. However, it’s also possible to transplant them in spring, once the soil has warmed up.
Choosing a Transplant Site
Calla lilies prefer moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade, with protection from strong winds. Avoid planting them in areas where water tends to accumulate.
Preparing the Transplant Site
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the calla lily and just as deep.
- Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Water the hole thoroughly before transplanting.
Digging Up the Calla Lily
- Carefully dig around the calla lily, taking care not to damage the roots.
- Use a sharp spade to cut through any thick roots that may be anchoring the plant.
- Lift the calla lily out of the ground and gently shake off any excess soil.
Dividing the Calla Lily (Optional)
- If you wish to propagate new plants, you can divide the calla lily’s rhizomes.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the rhizomes into sections, each with at least one eye (new growth point).
- Allow the cut surfaces to dry for a few hours before replanting.
Transplanting the Calla Lily
- Place the calla lily or its divisions in the prepared hole, ensuring that the top of the rhizome is level with the soil surface.
- Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant.
- Water the calla lily deeply and regularly, especially during the first few weeks after transplanting.
Aftercare
- Water the calla lilies regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize the plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth.
- Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Troubleshooting
- Calla lilies not blooming: Ensure they are receiving enough sunlight and fertilizer.
- Calla lilies wilting: Check for underwatering or overwatering.
- Calla lilies with yellowing leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
- Calla lilies with brown spots on leaves: This could indicate a fungal infection.
Final Thoughts
Transplanting calla lilies is a simple yet rewarding task that can enhance your garden’s beauty and provide you with new plants. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a successful transplant and enjoy the vibrant blooms of calla lilies for years to come.
FAQ
Q: Can I transplant calla lilies in the spring?
A: Yes, you can transplant calla lilies in spring, but it’s best to wait until the soil has warmed up.
Q: How often should I water calla lilies after transplanting?
A: Water the calla lilies deeply and regularly, especially during the first few weeks after transplanting.
Q: Do calla lilies prefer full sun or shade?
A: Calla lilies prefer full sun to partial shade, with protection from strong winds.
Q: How deep should I plant calla lilies?
A: Plant the calla lily so that the top of the rhizome is level with the soil surface.
Q: Can I divide calla lilies anytime?
A: It’s best to divide calla lilies during their dormant period, typically in late summer or early fall.
