How to Divide Calla Lilies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Calla lilies are beautiful plants that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. They are relatively easy to care for, but one important task that gardeners need to perform is dividing the plants. Division helps to keep calla lilies healthy and vigorous, and it can also be used to propagate new plants.
When to Divide Calla Lilies
The best time to divide calla lilies is in the spring or fall, when the plants are dormant. In warm climates, you can divide calla lilies in the spring after the last frost. In cooler climates, it is best to divide them in the fall after the foliage has died back.
How to Divide Calla Lilies
Dividing calla lilies is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps:
- Dig up the calla lily plant. Use a shovel to carefully dig around the plant, being careful not to damage the roots.
- Remove the foliage. Once the plant is dug up, remove the foliage by cutting it off at the base.
- Separate the rhizomes. The rhizomes are the fleshy, underground stems of the calla lily plant. Use your hands or a sharp knife to separate the rhizomes into individual pieces. Each piece should have at least one eye, which is a small bump that will grow into a new plant.
- Replant the rhizomes. Replant the rhizomes in well-drained soil. Space the rhizomes about 12 inches apart.
- Water the plants. Water the plants deeply after replanting.
Tips for Dividing Calla Lilies
- If you live in a cooler climate, you may need to store the calla lily rhizomes over the winter. To do this, place the rhizomes in a paper bag filled with peat moss or vermiculite. Store the bag in a cool, dry place.
- When dividing calla lilies, it is important to be careful not to damage the roots. Damaged roots can make it difficult for the plants to establish themselves.
- Calla lilies can be divided every three to five years. However, if you divide them too often, they will never quite reach their full potential.
Benefits of Dividing Calla Lilies
Dividing calla lilies has a number of benefits, including:
- Promotes healthy growth. Dividing calla lilies helps to remove old, woody rhizomes. This allows the new rhizomes to grow more vigorously.
- Prevents overcrowding. Overcrowded calla lilies can become weak and spindly. Dividing the plants helps to prevent overcrowding and keeps them looking their best.
- Produces new plants. Dividing calla lilies is a great way to propagate new plants. Each piece of rhizome that you divide has the potential to grow into a new plant.
Conclusion
Dividing calla lilies is a simple task that can have a big impact on the health and appearance of your plants. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily divide your calla lilies and enjoy their beauty for years to come.
