How to Grow a Calla Lily From Seed

Cafe Planta Team
Houseplants in a beautiful sunny space

Calla lilies are a favorite among many plant parents, known for their elegant and striking appearance. Growing these beauties from seed can be a rewarding way to bring a touch of grace to your home or garden. But where do you start? And how do you ensure success in nurturing these seeds into stunning plants?

In this post, we'll walk you through the entire process of growing calla lilies from seed. We'll cover everything from selecting the right seeds to providing the ideal growing conditions, and even how to incorporate them into your home decor once they bloom. So grab your gardening gloves, and let's get started!

Selecting the Right Seeds

The journey of growing calla lilies begins with choosing the right seeds. Not all seeds are created equal, and picking high-quality ones is crucial for a successful growing experience. You can find calla lily seeds at your local garden center or through reputable online retailers. It's important to check the packaging for freshness and viability. Seeds that are too old might not germinate well, leaving you with a less than satisfactory result.

When selecting seeds, pay attention to the variety as well. Calla lilies come in various colors, from classic white to vibrant pinks and yellows. Consider what will complement your space best, and choose accordingly. If you're feeling adventurous, try a mixed pack to experiment with different colors.

Once you've selected your seeds, store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant. This helps maintain their viability and ensures they're in the best condition when planting time comes. Remember, the right seeds set the foundation for a successful growing experience.

Preparing to Plant

Before you plant your seeds, you'll need to prepare both your space and materials. First things first, consider where you want to grow your calla lilies. They thrive in well-lit areas but prefer indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light can stunt their growth.

Next, gather your materials. You'll need seed-starting trays or small pots, high-quality potting mix, and a watering can. It's also helpful to have labels ready if you're planting different varieties, so you can keep track of what's what as they grow.

Fill your trays or pots with potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. This allows room for watering without the soil spilling over. The potting mix should be well-draining, as calla lilies don't like to sit in waterlogged soil. If the mix feels too heavy, you can lighten it with some perlite or sand.

Planting Your Seeds

Now comes the exciting part: planting your seeds! Gently press each seed into the soil, about half an inch deep. If you're using seed-starting trays, plant one seed per cell. In pots, aim for one to three seeds per pot, depending on size.

Once your seeds are in the soil, give them a light watering to settle them into their new home. Use a gentle spray to avoid displacing the seeds. The soil should be moist but not saturated, as too much water can lead to rot.

After watering, cover the trays or pots with a clear plastic lid or plastic wrap. This creates a mini greenhouse effect, helping to retain moisture and warmth, which promotes germination. Place your covered trays in a warm spot with indirect light. A temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C) is ideal for germination.

Germination and Early Growth

Patience is key during the germination phase. Calla lily seeds can take anywhere from two to twelve weeks to sprout, depending on the variety and growing conditions. During this time, keep the soil consistently moist and ensure the temperature remains stable.

Once you see little green shoots emerging, it's time to remove the plastic cover. This allows your seedlings to acclimate to normal humidity levels. Continue to provide them with indirect light and keep the soil moist but not soggy.

As your seedlings grow, you may notice some variation in size and vigor. This is normal and can depend on the genetic diversity of the seeds. Continue to care for them, and they will gradually strengthen and develop.

Transplanting Seedlings

When your seedlings have developed a few true leaves and are large enough to handle, it's time to consider transplanting them into larger containers or directly into your garden. If you're potting them, choose containers with good drainage and fill them with a well-draining potting mix.

Gently remove the seedlings from their trays or pots, being careful not to damage the roots. If they've become root-bound, tease them apart gently. Plant each seedling at the same depth it was growing in the tray, and water thoroughly to help them settle in.

If you're planting them in your garden, choose a spot with partial shade and well-draining soil. Space the plants about a foot apart to give them room to grow. Water them in well, and keep an eye on them as they adjust to their new environment.

Caring for Your Calla Lilies

With your calla lilies now planted in their permanent homes, the focus shifts to ongoing care. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. However, take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Fertilizing your plants every four to six weeks can also promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. This will provide your calla lilies with the nutrients they need to thrive.

Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids or spider mites. If you spot any, a gentle spray of water or insecticidal soap can help keep them at bay. Regularly check the leaves for any signs of disease or distress, and address any issues promptly to keep your plants healthy.

Encouraging Blooms

Calla lilies are prized for their striking blooms, and with the right care, you can encourage a spectacular display. To promote flowering, ensure your plants receive consistent care with adequate light and moisture. If you notice your lilies aren't blooming, consider adjusting their light conditions or checking for nutrient deficiencies.

Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage new growth and extend the blooming period. Simply snip off the faded flowers at the base of the stem. This prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production, allowing it to focus on producing more blooms.

Remember, patience is key. It can take a while for calla lilies to reach their full blooming potential, especially when grown from seed. But with care and attention, you'll be rewarded with their stunning flowers.

Incorporating Calla Lilies into Your Home Decor

Once your calla lilies bloom, you can use them to add a touch of elegance to your home decor. These plants look stunning in both modern and traditional settings, thanks to their striking form and vibrant colors.

If you're keeping them in pots, consider placing them on a sunny windowsill or as a centerpiece on your dining table. Their unique shape and color can complement a variety of design styles, adding a pop of color to any room.

Calla lilies also make excellent cut flowers. You can create a stunning bouquet by pairing them with other blooms or greenery. Just be sure to change the water regularly and trim the stems to keep your arrangement looking fresh.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Like any plant, calla lilies can present a few challenges along the way. But don't worry, with a little guidance, you can overcome them. One common issue is yellowing leaves, which can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust your watering schedule and check that your pots or garden beds drain well to address this.

Pests such as aphids can be another headache. Regularly inspect your plants and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keeping your plants healthy and stress-free is the best defense against pests and diseases.

If you're finding your plants aren't blooming, double-check their light exposure and feeding schedule. Sometimes a little tweak in care can make all the difference in encouraging those beautiful flowers.

Final Thoughts

Growing calla lilies from seed is a delightful journey that combines patience, care, and a touch of nature's magic. By selecting the right seeds, providing optimal growing conditions, and addressing challenges with a proactive approach, you can enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing these plants from tiny seeds to stunning blooms.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to support your plant journey. Whether you're looking for more plant care tips or unique finds for your collection, we invite you to reach out to us via email or connect with us on Instagram. We love sharing our passion for plants and helping you create a beautiful, thriving home filled with greenery.

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