Refined and resistant, the Calla in winter surprises with its discreet strength. But how can we really protect it from the cold and prepare it for a lush spring?
There’s something in the Call (Zantedeschia Aethiopica) that conquers at first glance. That white that seems like pure light, the decisive but not intrusive shape… It is one of those presences that does not impose itself, but remains. In the garden it certainly looks great. But even in a pot, next to a window or in a bright corner, it can transform the atmosphere. Yet, as soon as the cold starts to get serious, you have to be alert. Calla is not an alarmist, but not even a frost artist. Its resistance has limits and, when it exceeds them, you can see it: the leaves sag, the greenery goes out. In short, winter is not really its natural habitat. The strong part, however, is hidden. The rhizome is his safe: he keeps everything there. Energy, memory, and that silent desire to flourish again. Every spring is like a return, precise and patient.
Ah, a little linguistic gem: “Calla” comes from Greek kalosHandsome. But his full name, Zantedeschia ethiopicais an all-Italian homage to the botanist Giovanni Zantedeschi. Ironically, for a plant that comes from the other side of the world. It grows happily near water, loves light, and does not disdain mild climates. But with some adjustments it can also be adapted elsewhere. The important thing is not to leave it to its fate.
When the frost arrives, the calla needs a blanket (or almost)
Let’s forget about catalog greenhouses or professional solutions. The Calla defends itself well, but needs a hand, especially when the thermometer seriously drops. It doesn’t take much: observe, perceive, protect. It’s like an elegant lady who finds herself without a coat: she resists, but only for a while.
Those who live in areas where winter temperatures exceed -5°C should already have a plan. There are two options:
- Leave it at homebut well covered. With dry leaves, straw or even good mature manure. An insulating blanket, in short. It works if the climate is not too harsh.
- Extract the rhizomes and keep them safe. Clean, dry, placed in a box, protected from cold and light. Even an old box in the cellar can work. As long as the environment is cool and stable.
If the Calla is in a pot, everything is simpler. Just move it to a sheltered but bright place. A veranda, a closed basement, even an unheated entrance. The important thing is to avoid sudden changes in temperature, which cause it to go haywire.
Spring: wake up calmly and shine again
When the cold retreats and the air smells of a new beginning, the Calla gives signals again. But it has its times. It shouldn’t be forced. She should be followed, like someone who wakes up late on Sunday: it’s better to bring her a coffee than ring the alarm.
The rhizomes are planted between March and April, when the risk of frost has passed. The ideal terrain? Moist but not soggy, rich but light. A mix with peat, sand and composted leaves works well.
Some practical advice:
- Sink the rhizomes a 5-10cm deep and leave them space: at least 40 cm between each other.
- It’s useful for the first few weeks little waterjust to keep moist. Then it increases.
- Pay attention to the light: after winter, better expose yourself gradually.
- When the leaves start to appear, you can start fertilizing delicately.
There is a little trick to get richer blooms: after summer, stop watering for a while. It’s like giving the plant a regenerating break. A mini hibernation before the big return.
A happy calla is a constant calla (even in the living room)
Growing Calla lily all year round is no feat. You just need to listen to it. A bit like with certain friendships: presence, attention and no pressure. In winter, love the intense light. A south-facing window is perfect. In summer, one is better gentle partial shadeaway from the strongest rays. The water? Yes, but with measure. The land must remain humidnever soaked. Waterlogging is dangerous, more than a harsh winter. At home, as outdoors, you can encounter unwelcome visitors: aphids, thrips, snails. A check every now and then is enough to keep them away.
When a leaf goes out, it’s not a drama. It must be removed, calmly. It’s part of the cycle. The plant breathes better and becomes lighter. Ultimately, the Calla is not complicated. He wants regularity, few demands, lots of character. And in exchange it gives that sober beauty, which never tires. A silent elegance, which is also good for those who look at it.
You might also be interested in: After planting the bulbs: the 4 gestures that really make the difference
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