Indoor calla lilies do go dormant. Dormancy is a natural part of their growth cycle, and it is necessary for them to go through this period in order to bloom again in the future. During dormancy, the plant enters a resting phase where it conserves energy and focuses on root development rather than producing new foliage or flowers.
To induce dormancy in indoor calla lilies, you need to adjust their care routine after they have finished blooming. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your indoor calla lilies go dormant:
1. Stop watering: Once your calla lilies have finished blooming, gradually reduce the amount of water you give them. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This reduction in watering will signal to the plant that it is time to enter dormancy.
2. Cut back foliage: Once the leaves start to turn yellow and die back naturally, you can trim them back to about an inch above the soil level. Removing the foliage helps redirect the plant’s energy towards the roots during dormancy.
3. Provide cool temperatures: Calla lilies prefer cooler temperatures during dormancy. Find a cool location in your home, preferably around 50-55°F (10-13°C), where you can place the dormant calla lilies. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or drafts, as this can cause damage to the plant.
4. Reduce light exposure: During dormancy, calla lilies require less light than when they are actively growing. Place them in an area with reduced light, such as a dimly lit room or away from direct sunlight. This will help slow down their metabolism and promote the dormancy process.
5. Maintain dry conditions: While the calla lilies are dormant, it’s important to keep the soil slightly dry. Check the moisture level regularly and only water when the top inch of soil feels completely dry. Overwatering during dormancy can lead to rot and other issues.
6. Monitor for signs of growth: After about two months of dormancy, you can gradually reintroduce water to the calla lilies. Start by watering lightly and increasing the amount over time. Place the plants in a slightly warmer location with more light to stimulate growth. New shoots should start emerging from the soil within a few weeks.
It’s important to note that not all calla lilies will go dormant at the same time or for the same duration. Some may enter dormancy earlier or later than others, depending on various factors such as environmental conditions and individual plant characteristics.
By allowing your indoor calla lilies to go dormant, you are providing them with the necessary rest period they need to rejuvenate and prepare for future growth and blooming. Following these steps will help ensure the health and longevity of your indoor calla lilies.
