Where to Place Calla Lilies: Inside or Outside the Home?

In the world of flowers, there are many varieties that can brighten any indoor or outdoor setting. One such popular choice is the calla lily, but many are often confused about where to place these stunning blooms. This article will explore the best places to display calla lilies - whether they should be kept inside or left to thrive outdoors. Let’s delve into the details and uncover the ideal locations for these beautiful flowers.

Understanding Calla Lilies

Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia) are a genus of flowering plants known for their large, striking spathe, which resembles a trumpet or funnel. They come in various colors, including white, pink, and yellow, and are popular for their elegant appearance. However, the confusion about their placement often stems from the fact that the plant can be quite large and may not thrive indoors.

Calla Lilies as Cut Flowers

When you purchase calla lilies as cut flowers, they are clearly intended for indoor use. Freshly cut calla lilies can last up to a week or more, depending on the strain and care conditions. To ensure their longevity, follow these tips:

Water: Keep them in water that is changes daily. Clean the vase and replenish with fresh, room temperature water. Fertilizer: Add a teaspoon of sugar or a diluted flower food to the water to provide necessary nutrients. Light: Place the flowers in indirect sunlight or a cool, well-ventilated area to prolong their shelf life. Avoid Heat and Direct Sun: High temperatures and direct sunlight can cause the flowers to wilt quickly.

These cut flowers are a stunning addition to any indoor decor, making them a popular choice for weddings, special occasions, or simply to brighten a room.

Calla Lilies as Houseplants

For those interested in cultivating calla lilies as houseplants, it’s essential to understand that they are primarily outdoor plants. While they can tolerate cooler temperatures, they cannot thrive in the confined indoor environment. If you want to care for your calla lilies as houseplants, it is crucial to ensure they are planted outdoors.

Outdoor Planting Conditions

When planting calla lilies outdoors, consider the following conditions:

Soil: They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Light: Provide full sun or partial shade, depending on the strain of the plant. Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as they can suffer from root rot. Climate: Calla lilies are hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate cold temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).

When the cold weather approaches, mulch the area around the plants to protect their bulbs from frost and freezing temperatures.

Conclusion

Calla lilies are a beloved garden and floral choice, but the question of whether to place them inside or outside your home depends on your intentions. If you want them to last a while, keep them as cut flowers in a cool, well-ventilated area with regular care. However, if you desire to have them as a perennial in your garden, plant them outdoors in a suitable environment. With the right care, you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of calla lilies both in and out of your home.

FAQs

Can calla lilies be kept inside year-round?

No, they are generally not suitable for indoor year-round care. While they can thrive as cut flowers in a controlled indoor environment, planting them as houseplants is not a good idea due to their outdoor preference. If you want to experience their beauty throughout the year, consider planting them outdoors in a suitable climate and bring them indoors during colder months as seasonal arrangements.

How can I make sure my calla lilies bloom profusely?

To encourage your calla lilies to bloom profusely, ensure they are planted in well-draining, rich soil and receive adequate sunlight. During the growing season, feed them with a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can cause excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.