How to Plant Calla Bulbs

Overview

Beautiful calla lilies are simple to grow. They prefer warm climates with mild winters. Plant calla lilies in containers in areas with cold winters and move them inside once frost threatens in the fall. The large, trumpet shaped flowers are often white, but red, pink and yellow varieties are also available. Callas grow from part of the root called a rhizome. They require very little maintenance to thrive and produce blooms.

Step 1

Choose a well-drained garden bed in full sun or fill a pot with potting soil. Improve the drainage by working compost into the planting bed to raise the soil level two to three inches.

Step 2

Find the eyes on the bulb, similar to potato eyes. Plant the side with the most of these eyes facing up.

Step 3

Dig a 4-inch deep planting hole and place the bulb inside. Cover the bulb loosely with soil. Space calla rhizomes 12 inches apart in the garden on plant one rhizome per 12-inch container.

Step 4

Water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist at all times.

Step 5

Allow the leaves to die back naturally after the plant has finished blooming. Spread straw mulch over the lily bed at the beginning of winter.

Step 6

Bring pots indoors before the first freeze and place in a cool, dark area. Water only as the soil begins to dry out.