Calla lilies do spread, but they do so in a controlled manner through the formation of new bulbs. These bulbs are essentially underground storage structures that contain the nutrients and energy required for the plant’s growth and development. As the calla lily plant matures, it produces these bulbs, which can then be dug up and replanted in different locations to create new plants.
One of the advantages of calla lilies spreading through bulbs is that it allows for easy propagation and multiplication of the plant. If you have a mature calla lily plant in your garden and wish to have more of them, you can simply dig up the bulbs and plant them elsewhere. This method of propagation is relatively simple and can be done by gardeners of all skill levels.
To dig up calla lily bulbs, you’ll need to wait until the plant has finished flowering and the foliage begins to die back. This usually occurs in late summer or early fall. Once the foliage has turned yellow or brown, carefully dig around the base of the plant, being mindful not to damage the bulbs. Gently lift the bulbs out of the ground, remove any excess soil, and allow them to dry for a few days.
After drying, you can replant the calla lily bulbs in a new location, making sure to space them adequately to allow for their growth. The bulbs should be planted around 4 to 6 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches apart. It’s important to note that calla lilies prefer well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun conditions.
By replanting the bulbs in different areas of your garden, you can create a beautiful display of calla lilies that will spread and multiply over time. This controlled spreading ensures that the plants don’t become invasive or take over your entire garden. It also gives you the flexibility to design and arrange your garden space according to your preferences.
In my personal experience, I’ve found calla lilies to be relatively easy to control in terms of spreading. I have a small patch of calla lilies in my garden that I initially planted a few years ago. Since then, I have dug up and replanted some of the bulbs in different areas to create more clusters of calla lilies. This has allowed me to enjoy their elegant blooms in various parts of my garden without worrying about them taking over.
Calla lilies are a beautiful addition to any garden, and their controlled spreading through bulb multiplication makes them a convenient plant to grow. By understanding their growth habits and following proper planting and care techniques, you can enjoy the beauty of calla lilies while keeping their spread in check.
