Calla lilies are absolutely stunning, but keeping them blooming for as long as possible takes a little know-how. The good news? A few simple tricks can make all the difference!
I’ve gathered 20 easy ways to help your potted calla lilies thrive and keep those elegant flowers coming. With the right care, you can enjoy their beauty for much longer.
Let’s make sure your calla lilies stay healthy, happy, and full of blooms!
1. Keep Your Calla Lily in the Right Spot
Finding the perfect spot for your Calla Lily is crucial! These plants love bright, indirect sunlight, so placing them near a window with sheer curtains is ideal.
Direct sunlight can be too harsh and scorch their beautiful leaves. A warm, cozy area with temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) will make your Calla Lily feel right at home. Just a little thought into where you put your plant can lead to a longer-lasting, happy bloom!
2. Don’t Overwater – Be Mindful of Moisture Levels
It’s easy to overdo it with watering, but your Calla Lily won’t appreciate it! The trick is to let the top inch of soil dry out before you water again.
Check the soil regularly—if it’s damp, skip watering for a bit. Too much water can suffocate the roots, causing root rot. So, keep your watering routine balanced, and your Calla Lily will reward you with stunning blooms!
3. Use the Right Pot with Proper Drainage
When choosing a pot for your Calla Lily, go for one with proper drainage holes. Without them, excess water can build up at the bottom, risking root rot. The right size pot is also important—it should be just a little bigger than the root ball.
Using a terracotta or clay pot helps because these materials allow the soil to breathe and dry out faster. With the right pot, your Calla Lily can grow and thrive!
4. Fertilize Regularly for Healthy Growth
Give your Calla Lily a little extra love by fertilizing it every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer and make sure to dilute it properly to avoid overfeeding. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots, so it’s all about moderation.
During the winter months, scale back on feeding since the plant isn’t actively growing. A well-fed Calla Lily will produce beautiful, vibrant blooms that last longer!
5. Trim Dead Leaves and Flowers
Trimming dead leaves and flowers isn’t just for looks—it’s also great for the plant’s health! Snip off any yellow or browning leaves to keep your Calla Lily looking fresh. Removing spent flowers helps redirect the plant’s energy into new growth.
Plus, regular pruning prevents disease and keeps the plant looking neat. This simple task can make all the difference in how long your Calla Lily lasts!
6. Keep an Eye on Pests
Pests can sneak up on your Calla Lily when you least expect it! Regularly check the undersides of the leaves and the stems for any signs of aphids or spider mites. If you spot any, gently rinse the leaves with a mix of water and mild soap, or use an insecticidal soap.
Keeping pests in check helps prevent damage and ensures your plant stays healthy and happy. A little vigilance goes a long way when it comes to pest control!
7. Repot When Necessary
Every couple of years, it’s a good idea to repot your Calla Lily into a bigger container. If the roots are starting to outgrow their current space, the plant will thank you with more growth and blooms. Choose a pot just a little larger than the current one, and be gentle with the roots when repotting.
Refresh the soil to give your Calla Lily the nutrients it needs to thrive. Repotting is an easy way to keep your plant healthy and happy!
8. Keep the Soil Well-Drained
Drainage is key to a healthy Calla Lily. You don’t want the soil to become waterlogged, so make sure to mix in some perlite or sand for better drainage. This helps water flow through the soil without pooling at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.
Well-drained soil means healthier roots and a longer-lasting plant. A simple trick for avoiding water-related issues is ensuring your pot has drainage holes!
9. Support the Flowers with Stakes
Calla Lily flowers can grow tall and heavy, so providing support is important. Use a stake or support ring to help keep the flowers upright and prevent them from flopping over. This simple trick not only keeps your plant looking neat but also protects the stems from snapping.
Plus, when the flowers are properly supported, they have a better chance of lasting longer. Your Calla Lily will appreciate the extra care!
10. Keep the Plant Warm During Winter
Calla Lilies are tropical plants, so they don’t like the cold! During the winter, keep your plant in a warm spot, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing them near drafty windows or heating vents that can cause temperature fluctuations.
If the temperature drops too much, your Calla Lily may stop blooming or even die off. Keeping it warm and cozy will help your plant stay healthy through the colder months!
11. Provide Enough Light for Your Calla Lily
Light is essential for your Calla Lily’s health, but not just any light will do. These plants prefer bright, indirect light, so keep them out of direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A spot near a north or east-facing window works well, where they can get plenty of light without the harshness of midday sun.
If your plant isn’t getting enough light, you might notice the leaves turning yellow. Keep that light balanced, and your Calla Lily will thrive!
12. Use the Right Soil Mix for Calla Lilies
The right soil mix makes a huge difference for your Calla Lily’s growth. Opt for well-draining soil that’s slightly acidic to neutral. A good mix might include a blend of potting soil, perlite, and a bit of compost for added nutrients.
Avoid heavy, clay-like soil that retains too much moisture, as it can lead to root rot. By choosing the right mix, you’ll set your Calla Lily up for long-term success!
13. Water Your Calla Lily at the Right Time
Timing your watering is just as important as the amount of water you use. It’s best to water your Calla Lily in the morning when the soil is still a bit damp from the night. Avoid watering in the evening when the soil might stay wet overnight, leading to potential root issues.
Make sure the water drains freely, and never let the plant sit in water for too long. By timing your watering well, you’ll keep your Calla Lily healthy and happy!
14. Protect Your Calla Lily from Temperature Shifts
Calla Lilies are sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so keep them in a spot with consistent warmth. Avoid placing your plant near doors, windows, or air conditioners where drafts can cause fluctuations in temperature.
The best place is somewhere that stays warm year-round, between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Protecting your Calla Lily from extreme temperature changes will help it bloom beautifully for longer! A stable environment is key to keeping your plant strong.
15. Deadhead Flowers for Continuous Blooms
Deadheading your Calla Lily flowers is one of the best ways to encourage new blooms. Once a flower starts to fade, trim it off near the base of the stem to make room for new growth. This not only keeps the plant looking tidy but also ensures that energy is redirected into fresh blossoms.
Regularly removing spent flowers keeps your plant focused on producing more vibrant blooms. It’s an easy and effective way to keep your Calla Lily looking its best!
16. Maintain Humidity for Healthier Plants
Calla Lilies love humidity, so try to maintain a moist environment for your plant. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant. Misting the leaves lightly can also help, but don’t overdo it, as too much moisture on the leaves can cause mold.
Keeping the air humid will promote lush, healthy foliage and encourage your Calla Lily to bloom longer. A little humidity goes a long way for this tropical beauty!
17. Rotate the Pot Regularly for Even Growth
Calla Lilies, like all plants, will naturally lean toward the light, which can lead to uneven growth. To encourage balanced growth, rotate your pot every couple of weeks.
This simple habit ensures that all parts of the plant get equal exposure to light, helping the plant grow evenly and beautifully. By rotating, you’ll have a stronger, more symmetrical Calla Lily. Plus, it gives the plant a little variety in its daily life!
18. Choose a High-Quality Potting Mix
Choosing a high-quality potting mix is a small investment that makes a big difference. Go for a mix that is light and fluffy, offering good drainage while holding enough moisture for your Calla Lily. Avoid heavy garden soil, as it can lead to poor drainage and compacted roots.
A good potting mix gives your Calla Lily the foundation it needs to thrive, allowing its roots to grow freely. Investing in quality soil pays off with vibrant flowers and healthy growth!
19. Prune Back Excess Growth for Better Blooms
Pruning your Calla Lily isn’t just for tidiness—it also encourages healthier growth and better blooms. Trim any excess stems or leaves that are crowding the plant, as this helps direct energy to the flowers. Don’t be afraid to prune back a little to maintain shape and size.
Removing old or weak growth allows the plant to focus on producing new, vibrant flowers. Regular pruning will keep your Calla Lily in tip-top shape all year long!
20. Watch Out for Root Rot and Prevent It
Root rot is a silent killer for many plants, but it’s easy to prevent with the right care. Ensure your Calla Lily’s pot has proper drainage so water doesn’t sit around the roots. Avoid overwatering, and make sure the soil is well-draining to keep the roots healthy.
If you notice yellowing leaves or a foul smell from the soil, it could be a sign of root rot. By preventing this early, you’ll keep your Calla Lily blooming beautifully.
21. Repot After Every Few Years for Optimal Growth
Repotting is an essential part of keeping your Calla Lily healthy. After a couple of years, the roots may outgrow their current pot, limiting growth. Choose a slightly larger pot and fresh, nutrient-rich soil to give your plant a fresh start.
Repotting helps refresh the soil, prevent root rot, and gives your Calla Lily the space it needs to thrive. Don’t be afraid to repot—your plant will appreciate it and reward you with more blooms!
22. Ensure Proper Air Circulation Around Your Plant
Good air circulation is often overlooked, but it plays a big role in plant health. Place your Calla Lily in a spot where air can flow freely around it to prevent the buildup of mold or mildew. Avoid overcrowding plants, as this can block airflow and create a breeding ground for pests.
A gentle breeze helps your Calla Lily stay strong and resistant to diseases. Keep it fresh and breezy, and your plant will flourish!
23. Use Mulch to Keep Soil Moist and Healthy
Mulch isn’t just for the garden—it can work wonders for your Calla Lily, too. Adding a layer of organic mulch on top of the soil helps retain moisture, keeping the roots hydrated. It also helps regulate soil temperature, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Mulch also prevents weeds from popping up around your plant. It’s a simple, natural way to improve the health and longevity of your Calla Lily.
24. Ensure Your Calla Lily Gets Enough Rest Time
Calla Lilies need their beauty sleep, too! After blooming, allow the plant to rest by reducing watering and giving it some time to recharge. In the winter months, cut back on fertilizing and let the plant go into a dormant phase.
A little rest allows the plant to gather energy for the next blooming cycle. Let your Calla Lily nap, and it’ll reward you with even more vibrant flowers when it wakes up!
25. Check for Drainage Issues Regularly
Good drainage is crucial for Calla Lilies, and it’s important to check that everything is functioning properly. If you notice water pooling at the bottom of the pot or soggy soil, it’s time to adjust your watering routine. Poor drainage can lead to root rot and other health issues.
Make sure the pot has plenty of holes and that the soil drains quickly. Regularly checking drainage ensures your Calla Lily stays happy and healthy for the long haul.
26. Refresh Soil Every Season for a Happy Plant
Even the best potting soil loses its nutrients over time. To keep your Calla Lily thriving, refresh the soil every season by replacing the top few inches with fresh, nutrient-rich soil. This helps replenish essential minerals and ensures your plant gets the nutrients it needs.
A little soil refresh goes a long way in encouraging strong growth and beautiful blooms. Your Calla Lily will appreciate the extra care and reward you with vibrant flowers!
27. Use Natural Insect Repellents
Instead of harsh chemicals, try using natural insect repellents to keep pests at bay. Neem oil or a mixture of water and dish soap works wonders against aphids and spider mites. These natural remedies are safe for your plant and won’t harm the environment.
Simply spray the solution on the leaves and stems, making sure to cover all surfaces. Your Calla Lily will stay healthy and pest-free without any toxic chemicals!
28. Ensure Consistent Watering Habits
Consistency is key when it comes to watering your Calla Lily. Try to water at the same time each day or week, depending on your plant’s needs. Consistent moisture keeps the soil at the right level, promoting steady growth and preventing stress.
Don’t let the soil dry out completely, but also avoid soaking it. By keeping a regular watering routine, you’ll help your Calla Lily stay healthy and vibrant!
29. Watch for Leaf Discoloration and Address It Promptly
If you notice the leaves of your Calla Lily turning yellow or brown, it’s a sign something’s off. This could be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or a lack of nutrients. Address the issue by adjusting your watering routine, ensuring the soil drains well, or adding some fertilizer.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse—tend to it right away! By staying on top of these changes, you can keep your Calla Lily looking gorgeous for longer.