How Do You Store Calla Lilies For The Winter

You can store calla lilies for the winter by lifting their rhizomes from the ground, curing them, and keeping them in a cool, dry place until spring.
 
This is the most reliable method to ensure your calla lilies survive the winter, especially if you live in a region where the ground freezes.
 
If you have been wondering how do you store calla lilies for the winter, the answer involves a few simple but important steps.
 
Let me walk you through the process so your calla lilies come back vibrant and healthy next season.
 
I will also cover the differences between storing potted calla lilies and those grown in the garden.
 
Let’s get started.
 

How Do You Store Calla Lilies For The Winter: The Steps

The process of storing calla lilies for the winter is straightforward once you know the timing and conditions.
 
Here is the step-by-step guide to storing calla lilies for the winter.
 

1. Wait For The Right Time To Dig

You should not rush to dig up your calla lilies.
 
Wait until the first frost has blackened the foliage, as this signals the plant is entering dormancy.
 
The leaves will die back naturally, and this is when the rhizomes have stored enough energy.
 
Digging too early means the rhizomes will not have enough reserves to survive storage.
 
This timing is crucial when you store calla lilies for the winter.
 

2. Lift The Rhizomes Gently

Use a garden fork or spade to carefully loosen the soil around the plant.
 
Insert the fork well away from the base to avoid slicing into the rhizomes.
 
Gently pry the clump out of the ground, shaking off excess soil.
 
Be careful not to bruise or break the rhizomes because damage can lead to rot during storage.
 

3. Cure The Rhizomes Before Storing

Curing is a step many gardeners skip, but it is vital for successful storing of calla lilies for the winter.
 
Lay the rhizomes out in a single layer in a warm, dry, well-ventilated spot for about a week.
 
A garage, shed, or covered porch works well for this.
 
The goal is to let the outer skin dry and any small cuts callus over.
 
This prevents moisture from entering the plant tissue and causing rot.
 

4. Trim The Foliage

After curing, cut away the dried leaves and stems.
 
Leave about an inch of the stem attached to the rhizome.
 
Then, gently brush off any remaining soil, but do not wash the rhizomes with water.
 
Excess moisture is the enemy when you store calla lilies for the winter.
 

5. Choose Your Storage Medium

You can store calla lilies for the winter in several different materials.
 
The most common options are peat moss, vermiculite, or dry sand.
 
Place a layer of your chosen medium in a cardboard box or paper bag.
 
Nestle the rhizomes into the material, making sure they are not touching each other.
 
This prevents the spread of rot if one rhizome goes bad.
 
Then, cover them completely with more of the dry medium.
 

6. Find The Ideal Storage Location

The location is just as important as the medium when you store calla lilies for the winter.
 
You want a cool, dark, and dry place with a consistent temperature between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C).
 
A basement, unheated garage, or cool closet are all excellent options.
 
Avoid areas that get too cold, as freezing will turn the rhizomes to mush.
 
Also, avoid warm spots, as they can cause the rhizomes to sprout prematurely.
 

Storing Calla Lilies For The Winter In Pots

Not everyone wants to dig up their calla lilies.
 
If you grow them in containers, you can simplify how you store calla lilies for the winter.
 

1. Move The Pot Indoors

Before the first hard frost, bring your potted calla lilies inside.
 
Place them in a cool, dark room, such as a basement or an unheated spare room.
 
The temperature should be around 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C).
 
Let the foliage die back naturally, then stop watering.
 
The soil should be allowed to dry out completely.
 

2. Keep The Rhizomes In The Soil

You can store calla lilies for the winter right in their pots without removing the rhizomes.
 
Just ensure the soil is dry, and leave the pot undisturbed until spring.
 
Some gardeners like to pull the dried foliage off, but this is optional.
 
This method is much less stressful for the plant, and it works perfectly for indoor storage.
 

Common Mistakes When You Store Calla Lilies For The Winter

There are a few pitfalls that can ruin your calla lilies during their dormant period.
 
Avoid these common errors to keep your rhizomes healthy.
 

1. Storing Them In A Too-Humid Environment

Humidity is a silent killer when you store calla lilies for the winter.
 
If the air in your storage spot is damp, mold will quickly develop on the rhizomes.
 
Always check your storage medium for moisture periodically.
 
If you see any condensation, move the rhizomes to a drier spot immediately.
 

2. Ignoring Them During The Winter

You should check on your stored calla lilies about once a month.
 
Look for any signs of shriveling, mold, or rot.
 
If a rhizome feels soft, remove it from the storage box right away.
 
If the rhizomes look shriveled, you can mist them slightly with water.
 
But be careful, as too much water will cause rot.
 

3. Starting Them Too Early In Spring

When you store calla lilies for the winter, the key is to keep them dormant long enough.
 
If you bring them into a warm, bright room too early, they will start growing thin, weak shoots.
 
Wait until the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed before you plant them out.
 
For containers, you can start them indoors about a month before your last frost date.
 

So, How Do You Store Calla Lilies For The Winter?

You store calla lilies for the winter by lifting the rhizomes, curing them, and keeping them in a cool, dark spot until spring.
 
The process is simple, but it requires attention to moisture and temperature.
 
You can also store calla lilies for the winter in their pots by moving them to a cool room and letting them dry out.
 
Whichever method you choose, the goal is the same: keep the rhizomes dormant and dry.
 
With proper care, your calla lilies will reward you with beautiful blooms again next year.
 
Happy gardening, and I hope your calla lilies thrive all winter long.