Harvesting Calla Lily Plant:
Timing and Techniques

Calla lilies are a popular choice for gardeners and florists due to their striking appearance and long vase life. These elegant flowers come in a range of colors, from pure white and cream to vibrant shades of pink, orange, and purple. However, if you want to enjoy their beauty for as long as possible, it’s important to know when and how to harvest them.

Timing for Harvesting Calla Lily Plants

The best time to harvest calla lilies depends on your intended use. If you want to use them as cut flowers or for floral arrangements, it’s best to wait until the blooms are fully open. This is when they are at their most vibrant and will last the longest in a vase.

However, if you’re growing calla lilies for their bulbs, you’ll want to wait until the flowers have started to fade and the foliage has turned yellow. This is usually around 6-8 weeks after blooming. At this point, the plant has stored enough energy in its bulb to produce new growth next year.

Techniques for Harvesting Calla Lily Plants

Once you’ve determined the right time to harvest your calla lilies, the next step is to know how to do it properly. Here are some techniques to follow:

Cut Flowers

To harvest calla lilies for cut flowers, wait until the blooms are fully open before cutting the stems with a sharp knife or pruning shears. Cut the stem at an angle just above a node or joint. This will help the stem absorb water and nutrients more easily.

After cutting the flowers, immediately place them in a vase filled with fresh water. To maximize their vase life, change the water every two days and trim the stems about 1 inch each time.

Bulbs

To harvest calla lily bulbs, wait until the foliage has turned yellow and started to die back. Dig up the bulbs carefully with a spade or fork, being sure not to damage them.

Shake off any excess soil and cut off the foliage about 1 inch above the bulb. Allow the bulbs to dry in a warm, well-ventilated area for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to replant them.

FAQ: Harvesting Calla Lily Plants

Q: Can I harvest calla lilies before they bloom?

A: They can be harvested before they bloom but it’s best to wait until they are fully open so that they can last longer in a vase.

Q: Can I store calla lily bulbs for planting next season?

A: Yes, you can store calla lily bulbs in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to replant them.

Q: Should I cut back my calla lily plant after harvesting?

A: Yes, cut back any remaining foliage about 1 inch above the bulb after harvesting.

Q: How long do calla lilies last in a vase?

A: With proper care, calla lilies can last up to two weeks in a vase.

Conclusion

Harvesting calla lilies can be a rewarding experience for any gardener or florist. By following these tips on timing and techniques, you can ensure that your calla lilies look their best whether you’re using them as cut flowers or harvesting their bulbs. Remember to always use sharp tools when cutting and handle the plants with care when harvesting their bulbs.