Veseys

Most Calla hybrids are only hardy to zone 8, but may overwinter in zone 7 with protection.

PLANTING IN SPRING:

Start inside 8 weeks before your last frost date, especially if your season is short. Plant one tuber per 6 inch pot, 4 inches deep. Water thoroughly. Place pot in a sunny, warm spot and you should not have to water again until shoots appear - unless the soil dries out. Do not plant outside until after risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Provide a warm, sunny, sheltered location. Plant 12 inches apart in the garden or continue to grow in containers. Manage water carefully; provide regular, plentiful water, but do not let them sit in water. Fertilize occasionally. Remove flower stems as the flowers fade. Leaves will remain attractive after flowering has stopped. Reduce water towards the end of the summer until the leaves die back. After leaves have yellowed and before heavy frosts, dig up tubers. Wash tubers gently, being careful not to injure them. Dust with an anti-fungal bulb dust and cure for 7 days at 21-26°C in an airy place. Store tubers in a single layer in a shallow box or in onion or paper bags in a cool, (5-10°C) dark place. You can split tubers in spring before replanting but be sure to allow cut surfaces to air dry for a few days before replanting.

PLANTING IN FALL:

Plant one rhizome just under soil surface in a 6-8 inch pot (or 3 rhizomes in a 10-12 inch pot) filled with good potting soil. Water thoroughly. Place pot in a sunny, warm spot and you should not have to water again until shoots appear - unless the soil dries out. Water regularly and fertilize every 2 weeks. Indoors, Callas prefer cool temperatures (15-17°C)and high humidity. Rest the bulbs for 3 months by gradually withholding water until leaves wither. Start into growth again by watering.