How to Repot Calla Lily?

Repotting a calla lily is a straightforward process that helps ensure its continued growth and vibrant blooms. To do so, you will carefully lift the flowers out of their smaller pot and gently place them into the larger one, taking care not to damage the delicate roots. Afterwards, fill the new pot with soil up to about an inch from the pot's rim.

Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are known for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms. Repotting becomes necessary when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every one to two years, or when the soil appears compacted and nutrient-depleted. Look for signs like roots growing out of drainage holes or the plant looking top-heavy.

Preparing for Repotting

Before you begin, gathering the right materials will make the process smooth and stress-free for your plant.

Choosing the Right Pot

• Size: Select a new pot that is only one size larger than the current one—typically 1 to 2 inches wider in diameter. A pot that is too large can hold excess moisture, leading to root rot.
• Drainage: Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes. Calla lilies thrive in moist but not waterlogged conditions.

Selecting the Ideal Soil

• Type: Calla lilies prefer rich, well-draining potting mix. A good quality all-purpose potting soil, possibly amended with some perlite or sand for improved drainage, is ideal.
• pH: They generally prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-6.5).

Essential Tools

• New pot
• Fresh potting mix
• Small trowel or scoop
• Gloves (optional)
• Watering can

Step-by-Step Repotting Process

Follow these steps to successfully repot your calla lily, minimizing stress on the plant.

1. Prepare the New Pot: Place a small layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom of your new, larger pot. This provides a soft bed for the plant's roots.
2. Remove the Calla Lily: Gently tip the old pot on its side and carefully slide or carefully lift the flowers out of their smaller pot. You might need to gently tap the bottom of the pot or use a knife around the edges to loosen the soil.
3. Inspect the Roots: Once out, gently inspect the root ball. If it's tightly bound, you can gently loosen some of the outer roots with your fingers to encourage them to grow into the new soil. Remove any circling, mushy, or dead roots.
4. Position the Plant: Gently place them into the larger one, taking care not to damage the delicate roots. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is about an inch or so below the rim of the new pot. This ensures there's enough space for watering.
5. Add New Soil: Fill the new pot with soil up to about an inch from the pot's rim. Gently pat the soil down around the roots to remove large air pockets, but avoid compacting it too much. The rhizome (the thick stem from which the roots grow) should be just below the soil surface.
6. Water Thoroughly: Water the plant immediately after repotting until water drains from the bottom of the pot. This helps settle the soil and provides initial hydration to the disturbed roots.

Post-Repotting Care

After repotting, your calla lily will need a short period to recover and adjust to its new environment.

• Light: Place the repotted calla lily in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight for the first week or two, as the plant is more susceptible to stress.
• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but do not let the plant sit in standing water. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Fertilizing: Wait at least 3-4 weeks before fertilizing your newly repotted calla lily. The fresh potting mix will provide sufficient nutrients for a while.

Tips for Success

By following these guidelines, your calla lily will thrive in its new home, rewarding you with its exquisite beauty.