How To Collect Seeds From Calla Lilies

You can collect seeds from calla lilies by waiting for the flower to fade and then harvesting the seed pod that forms at the base of the spathe.
 
This process is a rewarding way to grow new plants, though it does require patience and a bit of know-how.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to collect seeds from calla lilies successfully, you’re in the right place.
 
In this guide, we’ll cover exactly when to harvest, how to extract and dry the seeds, and how to store them so they stay viable for planting.
 
Let’s dig into the simple steps for collecting calla lily seeds and getting them ready for your garden.
 

Why You Can Collect Seeds From Calla Lilies

Calla lilies produce seeds after pollination, which can happen naturally via insects or with a little help from your hand.
 
While many gardeners prefer dividing rhizomes for faster results, collecting seeds from calla lilies is a fun challenge that can yield new varieties.
 
The key is to let the flower go through its full cycle, from vibrant bloom to fading color, then to a green seed pod.
 
This pod holds the tiny seeds that, with proper care, can grow into brand new calla lily plants.
 

1. Let the Flower Mature Fully

The first step in collecting seeds from calla lilies is resisting the urge to deadhead spent blooms.
 
Once the white or colored spathe begins to wilt and drop away, leave the stem in place.
 
The ovary at the base of the flower will swell into a plump, green pod.
 
This pod needs several weeks to mature, so be patient and let it develop on the plant.
 

2. Check for a Ripe Seed Pod

You’ll know the pod is ready to harvest when it turns from bright green to a softer yellow or brownish hue.
 
The pod will also feel slightly soft when gently squeezed, similar to a ripe berry.
 
At this point, the seeds inside are fully formed and ready for you to collect from calla lilies.
 
If you pick too early, the seeds may be immature and won’t germinate.
 

Steps to Collect Seeds From Calla Lilies

Once the pod is ripe, it’s time to get your hands dirty and extract those tiny treasures.
 
Here’s the step-by-step process for collecting seeds from calla lilies easily.
 

1. Snip the Pod Off the Stem

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to cut the seed pod from the plant.
 
Place the pod in a paper bag or on a clean plate, not plastic, as plastic traps moisture and can cause mold.
 
Bring it inside to a dry, well-ventilated area before opening it.
 

2. Open the Pod and Extract the Seeds

Calla lily seed pods are spongy and contain clusters of small, round seeds nestled in a fleshy pulp.
 
Gently break the pod open with your fingers or a knife.
 
You’ll find dozens of tiny, hard seeds embedded in the pulp.
 
To collect seeds from calla lilies efficiently, scoop out the pulp and seeds together into a bowl of water.
 

3. Separate Seeds from Pulp

The fleshy pulp can harbor mold if left on the seeds, so cleaning is essential.
 
Swirl the pulp and seeds in the water for a minute, then let it sit.
 
Healthy seeds will sink to the bottom while pulp and empty seed coats float to the top.
 
Pour off the floating debris and repeat the rinse until the water is clear.
 

4. Dry the Seeds Thoroughly

Spread the cleaned seeds on a coffee filter or a paper towel in a single layer.
 
Let them air dry for a week in a cool, dark spot to ensure all moisture is gone.
 
Properly dried seeds are key when you collect seeds from calla lilies because damp seeds will rot in storage.
 

Storing Seeds Collected From Calla Lilies

After drying, your seeds need the right storage conditions to stay viable until planting time.
 
Follow these tips to keep them fresh.
 

1. Use an Airtight Container

Place the dry seeds in a small glass jar or a resealable plastic bag.
 
Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
 
Add a tiny silica gel packet if you have one, as it absorbs any residual humidity.
 

2. Keep Them Cool and Dark

Seeds stored from calla lilies prefer temperatures around 40-50°F, so your fridge works perfectly.
 
Label the container with the date and variety so you don’t forget what’s inside.
 
Avoid freezing seeds, as the ice crystals can damage the embryo inside.
 

3. Test for Viability Before Planting

When you’re ready to sow, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
 
Any seeds that float are likely empty or dead, so discard them.
 
The sinking seeds have the best chance of sprouting when you decide to plant them.
 

Tips for Growing Seeds Collected From Calla Lilies

Collecting seeds from calla lilies is only half the journey, the other half is getting them to germinate.
 
Here are a few tricks to boost your success rate.
 

1. Scarify the Seed Coat

Calla lily seeds have a tough outer coat that can delay germination.
 
Gently nick each seed with a nail file or sandpaper to create a small opening for water.
 
This process, called scarification, speeds up the sprouting process significantly.
 

2. Sow in a Seed Tray

Fill a seed tray with moist, well-draining potting mix and press the seeds onto the surface.
 
Cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil, about a quarter inch deep.
 
Keep the soil consistently moist, not soggy, and place the tray in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
 

3. Be Patient with Germination

Calla lily seeds are slow starters, often taking several weeks to a few months to sprout.
 
Don’t be discouraged if nothing appears right away, just keep the soil moist and wait.
 
Once the seedlings emerge, you can transplant them to individual pots after they have two true leaves.
 

So, How Do You Collect Seeds From Calla Lilies?

You can collect seeds from calla lilies by waiting for the seed pod to ripen, cleaning the seeds from the pulp, and drying them thoroughly.
 
It’s a simple process that rewards you with a supply of seeds for future planting seasons.
 
Remember to always start with a fully mature pod to ensure the seeds are viable.
 
And while this method takes longer than dividing rhizomes, it’s an enjoyable way to expand your garden.
 
Now you know exactly how to collect seeds from calla lilies, so give it a try this season.
 
Your patience will pay off with beautiful blooms grown from seeds you harvested yourself.