Create a Stunning Calla Lily Bouquet: Step-by-Step Guide

Why Choose Colored Callas?

While classic white callas are elegant, newer dwarf hybrids offer vivid hues—soft pastels like pink and lavender, plus fiery mango and orange shades that glow like candle flames. In the garden, they make excellent border plants and thrive massed in large containers (16–18 inch diameter). Plants range from 1–4 feet tall depending on variety.

Growing Basics

• Planting Time: January (frost-free areas); March (colder climates).
• Bloom Time: Mid-May to July.
• Start From: Rhizomes (thickened underground stems); buy at least a dozen for a bouquet.
• Sources: Nurseries (Jan–Mar) or mail-order: Dutch Gardens (800/818-3861), Van Bourgondien (800/622-9997).

What Callas Need

• Soil: Fast-draining; amend with 3 inches of compost.
• Exposure: Partial shade in hot summers; full sun or light shade in cooler areas.
• Planting (Garden): 2 inches deep, 1 foot apart, rounded side down, "bumpy eyes" up; handle gently.
• Planting (Containers): 2 inches deep, 1–6 inches apart in pots at least 16" diameter, 7" deep.
• Water: Keep moist but not soggy—overwatering causes rot.
• Fertilizer: Light feeding during bloom season.

Harvesting for Bouquets

Cut when trumpets are just opening for longest vase life (several hours out of water). Flowers last 2–4 weeks on the plant.