Mimicking the calla's life cycle
The calla (Zantedeschia) is a marsh plant that is native to South Africa. In her original location she finds:
- Boggy soil during flowering
- Dryness during rest
- Light location
- Little direct sunlight
also read
- Things to know about calla bulbs
- Bring calla to bloom - When the calla doesn't want to bloom
- Winter calla in a pot
In order for the calla to develop many flowers and to come back every year, you must provide the potted plant with conditions that correspond to those of the country of origin.
This means that the calla should be very bright during the growth phase, but not tolerate blazing sunlight over midday. It needs a lot of moisture during the flowering period, but during the rest period it has to dry out completely.
The right location
A bright flower window is the best location for the potted plant as long as it does not receive direct midday sun there.
Calla will do very well if you put the pot on the terrace in summer. Make sure that the place is sheltered from the wind.
Zimmercalla likes it warm. White varieties prefer temperatures between 16 and 20 degrees, colored varieties like it a little warmer at 18 to 21 degrees.
Proper care
After the rest, the calla in the pot must be poured slowly upwards and used to the flower window.
During flowering, water abundantly and spray the plant weekly. Fertilize regularly.
After the flowering period, the soil must dry out completely and the pot must be set up at around ten degrees during the break.
Repot regularly
The calla cannot stay in the same soil for too long. Experts recommend transplanting the potted plant every spring. A larger pot is only necessary if the old one has become too small. Wash the planter well beforehand.
Above all, it is important to completely replace the earth. Calla is sensitive to viruses, bacteria and mold spores.
Tips & Tricks
Almost all calla species are not hardy and must therefore be overwintered frost-free. The calla can stay in its pot during the resting phase. Alternatively, you can only store the flower bulbs in a cool and dark place.
