Knowing when to plant calla lily bulbs in zone 8 is the first step to enjoying their elegant blooms. This guide will walk you through the optimal planting season and everything you need to succeed.
Zone 8 offers a long growing season with mild winters, which is perfect for calla lilies. These plants aren’t actually true lilies or bulbs; they’re rhizomes. But we often call them bulbs for simplicity. Timing your planting correctly ensures they establish strong roots before the heat of summer arrives.
When To Plant Calla Lily Bulbs In Zone 8
The prime time for planting calla lily rhizomes in zone 8 is in the spring. You should aim to get them in the ground after the danger of the last frost has passed. Soil temperature is a more reliable guide than the calendar.
Wait until the soil has warmed to at least 65°F (18°C). This typically happens from mid-April to early May in most zone 8 areas. Planting too early in cold, wet soil can cause the rhizomes to rot.
Signs It’s the Right Time to Plant
- Nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C).
- The soil is no longer soggy from spring rains and is workable.
- Other spring flowers, like daffodils, have finished blooming.
Can You Plant Calla Lilies in Fall in Zone 8?
In zone 8, you can experiment with fall planting, but it comes with risks. The mild winters sometimes allow rhizomes to survive, especially with a thick layer of mulch. However, a sudden cold snap without snow cover can damage or kill them. For guaranteed results, spring planting is your best bet.
Choosing and Preparing Your Bulbs
Start with healthy, firm rhizomes from a reputable source. Look for ones that are plump and have at least one or two growing points, or “eyes.” Avoid any that feel soft, look shriveled, or have mold.
Before planting, you can soak the rhizomes in lukewarm water for about an hour. This helps rehydrate them and gives them a good start. Some gardeners also dust them with a fungicide powder to prevent rot, but this is optional if your soil has good drainage.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these simple steps for planting your calla lily rhizomes correctly.
- Pick the Perfect Spot: Calla lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade. In zone 8’s hot summers, a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal to prevent scorching.
- Prepare the Soil: They love rich, well-draining soil. Work in plenty of compost or aged manure to a depth of about 12 inches. Good drainage is critical to prevent the rhizomes from sitting in water.
- Plant at the Correct Depth: Dig holes 4 to 6 inches deep. Space the holes about 12 to 18 inches apart so the plants have room to spread.
- Place the Rhizome: Set the rhizome in the hole with the eyes (the bumpy growing points) facing upward. If you can’t tell, plant it on its side; the shoot will find its way up.
- Cover and Water: Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it down. Give them a thorough watering to settle the soil around the rhizome.
- Mark the Location: Use a plant marker so you remember where they are until they sprout, which can take 2-3 weeks.
Caring for Your Calla Lilies After Planting
Consistent watering is key, especially during the first few weeks and during the blooming period. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once they are a few inches tall, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support growth.
Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and keeps weeds down. A 2-inch layer of organic mulch, like bark chips, works perfectly. Keep the mulch a little away from the direct stems to avoid excess moisture there.
Overwintering Calla Lilies in Zone 8
In zone 8, calla lilies may survive winter in the ground if the conditions are right. After the first frost blackens the foliage, you have a choice to make.
- In-Ground Overwintering: Cut back the dead foliage to the ground. Apply a thick, 4-6 inch layer of mulch like straw or leaves over the planting area. This insulates the rhizomes from occasional hard freezes.
- Digging and Storing: For complete safety, many zone 8 gardeners dig up the rhizomes after the foliage dies back. Let them dry for a day, brush off the soil, and store them in a cool, dry place in peat moss or paper bags. Replant them in the spring.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with perfect timing, issues can arise. Here’s how to handle a few common ones.
Yellowing Leaves: This is often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil drainage and reduce your watering schedule. Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
Lack of Blooms: If your calla lily produces leaves but no flowers, it could be due to too much nitrogen fertilizer, too much shade, or a rhizome that is planted to shallow. Ensure they get enough sun and use a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to promote blooming.
Pests: Watch for aphids and spider mites. A strong spray of water from the hose or an insecticidal soap usually takes care of them effectively.
FAQ: Your Calla Lily Questions Answered
How late can you plant calla lily bulbs in zone 8?
You can plant them as late as early June, but they may have a shorter blooming period. Later planting means they face the peak summer heat during their establishment phase, so they’ll need extra attention to watering.
Do calla lilies come back every year in zone 8?
They can, especially if you provide winter protection or if you have a particularly mild winter. Many gardeners treat them as tender perennials in zone 8 and are pleasantly suprised when they return.
Should I soak calla lily bulbs before planting?
Yes, a brief soak (about an hour) in lukewarm water can help rehydrate the rhizomes and encourage faster sprouting. Don’t soak them for longer, as this can lead to rot.
What is the best month to plant calla lilies?
For zone 8, April is generally the best month to start planting calla lily rhizomes. Always go by soil temperature and local frost dates rather than just the calender.
Can potted calla lilies be planted in the ground?
Absolutely. You can transplant potted calla lilies into the garden in spring or early summer. Gently loosen the rootball, plant it at the same depth it was in the pot, and water it well to help it settle into it’s new home.
By following this guide for when to plant calla lily bulbs in zone 8, you set the stage for a stunning display. With their graceful flowers and strappy leaves, calla lilies add a touch of sophistication to any garden border or container. Remember, patience in the spring leads to beautiful rewards by summer.