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All About Calla Lily Plant Seeds:
Germination, Storage and Sowing

Updated: February 24, 2023

Calla lilies are elegant and graceful plants that are known for their beautiful flowers. These plants are native to southern Africa and are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and homes around the world. If you want to grow calla lilies from seeds, it’s important to know how to germinate, store and sow them properly. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about calla lily plant seeds.

Germination of Calla Lily Seeds

Calla lily seeds can be started indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate and growing conditions. They require warm temperatures and moist soil to germinate properly. Here’s how you can germinate calla lily seeds:

  1. Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.

  2. Fill a seed tray or pot with good quality potting soil.

  3. Place the seeds on top of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil.

  4. Water the soil gently to keep it moist but not waterlogged.

  5. Cover the tray or pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid to create a humid environment.

  6. Place the tray or pot in a warm location with bright, indirect sunlight.

  7. Check the soil moisture regularly and water as necessary.

  8. After 10-14 days, the seeds should begin to sprout.

Storage of Calla Lily Seeds

If you’re not ready to plant your calla lily seeds right away, you can store them for later use. Here’s how you can store calla lily seeds:

  1. Collect the seeds from mature calla lily plants once they are fully matured and have turned brown.

  2. Allow the seeds to dry completely by placing them in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least two weeks.

  3. Store the dried seeds in an airtight container such as a plastic bag or glass jar.

  4. Label the container with the date and type of seed.

  5. Store the container in a cool, dry place such as a refrigerator or freezer.

Sowing Calla Lily Seeds

Once your calla lily seeds have germinated or you’re ready to sow them, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade.

  2. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and mixing in compost or other organic matter.

  3. Sow the calla lily seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart.

  4. Cover the seeds with soil and water gently.

  5. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

  6. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out to 6-12 inches apart.

  7. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season.

  8. Water deeply once a week, making sure not to overwater.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take for calla lily seeds to germinate?

A: Calla lily seeds typically take 10-14 days to germinate under optimal conditions.

Q: Can I grow calla lilies from cuttings?

A: Yes, calla lilies can be propagated from cuttings taken from mature plants.

Q: Do calla lilies need full sun or shade?

A: Calla lilies prefer partial shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight if the soil is kept moist.

Q: How often should I fertilize my calla lilies?

A: Calla lilies should be fertilized every four weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: How often should I water my calla lilies?

A: Calla lilies should be watered deeply once a week, making sure not to overwater as they are susceptible to root rot.

In conclusion, growing calla lilies from seed can be a rewarding experience if you follow these guidelines for germination, storage and sowing. With proper care and attention, these beautiful plants will thrive in your garden or home and provide you with stunning flowers year after year.

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