Quck answer
To cut a calla lily, follow these steps:
1. Choose a healthy calla lily with a long stem and vibrant color.
2. Prepare a clean vase with fresh water and flower food.
3. Use sharp scissors or floral shears to cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, about 1 inch from the bottom.
4. Remove any leaves or foliage that will be submerged in water.
5. Place the calla lily in the vase, making sure the stem is fully submerged in water.
6. Change the water every few days and trim the stem slightly each time to prolong the flower’s life.
By following these simple steps, you can easily cut and care for a calla lily for longer-lasting beauty.
Calla lilies (​Zantedeschia​ spp.) are known for their elegant, curved flowers and are commonly used by florists to create beautiful bouquets. These bulb plants grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 11 and can bloom year-round in warmer climates.
If you live in colder regions, you can enjoy calla lilies for one season by treating them as annuals or by growing them as container plants and moving them indoors during the cold months. You can also dig up the bulbs and store them indoors over winter.
Properly Cutting Calla Lilies
You can cut calla lilies at any time while they’re blooming, but it’s best to do so on the day they open for maximum longevity. Younger blooms tend to last longer, so avoid cutting a plant for a bouquet if the pollen on the stalk in the center of the flower has started to shed.
Use a clean, sharp pruning tool to cut the flower stems near the base of the plant. This prevents the cut stems from detracting from the garden’s appearance. Removing the flower stems does not harm the plants.
Calla lilies do not require much pruning, but clip off yellowing or wilted leaves as needed to maintain the garden’s appearance. Pruning does not affect the plant’s health.
Tip
Before using pruning tools on calla lilies, sterilize them to prevent the spread of disease or dirt that could harm the plants or cause the cut flowers to wilt quickly. Soak the tools in a solution of 1 part bleach or pine oil cleaner and 3 parts water for five minutes. Rinse the disinfected tools with clean water before use.
Displaying Cut Calla Lilies
After cutting calla lily stems, place them in a container filled with at least 2 inches of lukewarm water to keep them hydrated. For longer-lasting blooms, add a flower food solution to the water in the container and vase.
You can purchase flower food solutions at garden centers or craft stores, or make your own by blending 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, a few drops of bleach, and 4 cups of water.
Tip
To prevent air bubbles from traveling up the stems and increase the vase life of calla lily flowers, wrap an elastic band around the bottom of each stem when placing it in the water. Leave the band on for one hour, then remove it and let the callas sit in the water for one more hour before arranging them.
To prepare your calla arrangement, fill your vase with a 2-inch solution of water and flower food. Cut the calla stems to your desired length while they are submerged in water, using a basin or sink. When transferring the stems to another container, make sure to keep them underwater. Calla flowers can last up to 10 days after being cut. Make sure to check the water level daily and add more of the flower food and water mixture to maintain a 2-inch depth.
FAQ
1. How do I prepare a calla lily for cutting?
To prepare a calla lily for cutting, start by selecting a healthy flower that has fully bloomed. Choose a stem that is long enough for your desired arrangement. Use a clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, about 1 inch above the base of the plant. Remove any leaves or foliage that will be below the water line in your vase. This will help prevent the water from becoming dirty and causing the flowers to wilt faster. Place the cut stem in a vase filled with fresh water immediately.
2. How often should I change the water when I have cut calla lilies?
It is recommended to change the water in the vase every two to three days when you have cut calla lilies. Calla lilies are sensitive to bacteria growth in the water, which can cause the flowers to wilt faster. By changing the water regularly, you can help prolong the life of the flowers. Before adding fresh water, make sure to rinse the vase thoroughly to remove any bacteria or residue. Additionally, trim the stems at a 45-degree angle before placing them back in the vase to ensure optimal water absorption.
3. How can I make my cut calla lilies last longer?
To make your cut calla lilies last longer, there are a few tips you can follow. Firstly, keep them in a cool location away from direct sunlight, drafts, and ripening fruit. Calla lilies prefer temperatures between 50-60В°F (10-15В°C). Secondly, change the water every two to three days and trim the stems before placing them back in the vase. Lastly, you can add a floral preservative to the water. These preservatives contain nutrients and ingredients that help extend the life of cut flowers. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dosage.
4. Can I propagate calla lilies from cut flowers?
No, you cannot propagate calla lilies from cut flowers. Calla lilies are typically propagated through division or by planting rhizomes. Cut flowers do not have the necessary parts or conditions to generate new plants. If you are interested in propagating calla lilies, it is best to obtain healthy rhizomes or divide mature plants during their dormant season.
5. How long can I expect cut calla lilies to last?
The lifespan of cut calla lilies can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality of the flowers, care, and environmental conditions. On average, cut calla lilies can last anywhere from 7 to 14 days. By following proper care techniques, you can help extend their lifespan. However, it is important to note that calla lilies are naturally shorter-lived cut flowers compared to some other varieties. Enjoy their beauty while they last and replace them with fresh blooms when needed.