How to Grow Calla Lily in Massachusetts

Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are strikingly beautiful plants known for their elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers and glossy green foliage. With their vibrant blooms and graceful demeanor, they can add a touch of sophistication to any garden. Growing calla lilies in Massachusetts can be a rewarding endeavor, provided you understand their specific growing needs and local climate considerations. This article will guide you through the essential steps to successfully cultivate calla lilies in the Bay State.

Understanding Calla Lilies

Before diving into the cultivation process, it’s important to understand the characteristics of calla lilies. Although commonly referred to as “lilies,” these perennial plants belong to the family Araceae and are native to Africa. They are known for their unique flower shapes and come in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and even deep purple.

Types of Calla Lilies

While there are numerous varieties of calla lilies, two main types are commonly grown in gardens:

1. Tropical Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia spp.): These varieties thrive in warm climates and do not tolerate frost well.
2. Hardy Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia spp.): These types can withstand colder temperatures and are better suited for northern climates like Massachusetts.

In Massachusetts, it’s best to choose hardy varieties that can endure the winter months.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To successfully grow calla lilies in Massachusetts, you need to replicate their natural growing conditions as closely as possible.

Climate Considerations

Massachusetts experiences a humid continental climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Calla lilies prefer temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F during the growing season. While they can survive frost with proper care, it’s essential to protect them from extreme cold.

Soil Requirements

Calla lilies thrive in well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. A rich loamy soil that retains moisture yet drains excess water is ideal. To ensure optimal growth:

• Amend your garden soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
• Avoid compacted or heavy clay soils that can lead to root rot.

Sunlight Needs

Calla lilies prefer full sun to partial shade. In Massachusetts, providing them with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily will encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms. If you live in an area with particularly hot summers, consider providing some afternoon shade to prevent scorching.

Planting Calla Lilies

The best time to plant calla lilies in Massachusetts is in the spring after the last frost has passed. Typically, this occurs between mid-April and late May.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Select a Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil where your callas will have enough space to grow.

2. Prepare the Soil: Till the soil and mix in plenty of compost or organic matter to enrich it.

3. Planting Depth: Dig holes about 3-4 inches deep for tubers (the bulb-like structure). Space each tuber about 12-18 inches apart.

4. Planting: Place the tubers into the holes with the pointed end facing up, then cover them gently with soil.

5. Watering: After planting, water the area thoroughly but be cautious not to overwater as this can lead to rot.

Watering Requirements

Calla lilies require consistent moisture but dislike sitting in waterlogged soil. In Massachusetts:

• Water your plants once a week during dry spells.
• Monitor rainfall; adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
• Mulching around the base of plants can help retain moisture while suppressing weeds.

Fertilizing Calla Lilies

Fertilization plays an essential role in promoting robust growth and abundant flowering.

Best Practices for Fertilizing:

1. Timing: Start fertilizing when new growth appears in late spring.
2. Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10).
3. Frequency: Apply fertilizer every four weeks until mid-summer when blooming is most vigorous; reduce frequency thereafter.

Maintaining Your Calla Lily Plants

Once your calla lilies are established, maintaining them requires regular care but is relatively straightforward.

Pruning and Deadheading

To promote continual blooming:

• Remove spent flowers by cutting them at the base of the stem.
• Cut back any yellowing or dead leaves to encourage new growth.

Pest and Disease Control

Calla lilies are generally resistant to pests but can occasionally attract aphids or spider mites:

• Inspect plants regularly for signs of infestation.
• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Additionally, watch out for common diseases such as root rot caused by overwatering or poor drainage:

• Ensure proper spacing between plants for adequate airflow.
• Always use clean tools when pruning or working with your plants.

Winter Care for Calla Lilies

As winter approaches in Massachusetts, special care is needed for your callas—especially if you are growing tropical varieties that cannot withstand frost.

For Hardy Varieties

1. In late fall when foliage begins to die back naturally, cut back stems to ground level.
2. Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate them from freezing temperatures.
3. In early spring, remove mulch once danger of frost has passed.

For Non-Hardy Varieties

For tropical callas, you’ll need to dig up bulbs before frost sets in:

1. Carefully excavate the tubers after several frosty nights when the foliage has died back.
2. Clean off excess soil and allow them to dry for a day or two.
3. Store them in a cool, dark place wrapped in peat moss or sawdust until spring planting.

Conclusion

Growing calla lilies in Massachusetts can provide an aesthetically pleasing addition to your garden landscape while allowing you to engage with nature year-round. By choosing suitable Hardy varieties, understanding their optimal growing conditions, properly planting and caring for them through all seasons—including winter—you will be rewarded with clusters of stunning blooms that enhance your outdoor space’s beauty.

With patience and attention to their specific needs, your calla lilies will thrive and become a cherished part of your Massachusetts garden!