Growing Calla Lilies in pots indoors in the UK: The complete guide
Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are known for their timeless beauty, with sleek, funnel-shaped blooms and glossy, arrow-shaped leaves that bring a touch of elegance to any indoor space. These striking plants come in a variety of colours - from classic white to vibrant pinks, yellows, and purples - making them a versatile choice for brightening up your home year-round.
Originally native to southern Africa, calla lilies are naturally suited to warmer climates, but with the right care and environment, they can thrive indoors across the UK. When grown in pots, they become ideal candidates for indoor cultivation, allowing you to enjoy their exotic charm regardless of the unpredictable British weather.
Growing calla lilies indoors is not only practical but deeply rewarding. These plants are relatively low-maintenance once established, yet they offer a generous display of foliage and blooms with just a little attention. Their ability to grow happily in containers means you can move them around your home to catch the light or create an attractive display on a windowsill, conservatory shelf, or indoor plant stand.
Whether you're a complete beginner starting your first indoor plant collection or an experienced houseplant enthusiast looking to try something new, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every stage of growing calla lilies in pots indoors. From choosing the right variety and getting started with planting, through their seasonal care, feeding, repotting, and overwintering, you'll find everything you need to help your calla lilies thrive and flower beautifully year after year.
Table of Contents
- Stage 1: Selecting rhizomes and initial potting
- Stage 2: Encouraging healthy Calla Lily growth indoors
- Stage 3: Feeding for foliage and flowers
- Stage 4: Repotting and potting on Calla Lillies
- Stage 5: End of season and winter dormancy
- Annual growing calendar
- Extra tips for success growing Calla Lillies
- Common indoor problems (and solutions)
- Growing Calla Lillies in pots - Final thoughts
- FAQs
Stage 1: Selecting rhizomes and initial potting
When to Plant
In the UK, the ideal time to pot up calla lilies indoors is from late winter to early spring, typically February through April. Starting early indoors gives your plants a long growing season and plenty of time to bloom before autumn.
Choosing Healthy Rhizomes
- Choose ones that are firm, plump, and free of mould or rot.
- Avoid shrivelled or soft rhizomes, as these may be non-viable.
- Popular indoor varieties include:
- Zantedeschia aethiopica (white flowers, larger plant)
- 'Picasso', 'Black Star', 'Captain Romance' and other coloured hybrids
Choosing the Right Pot
- Use a container with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
- A 20-25 cm (8-10 inch) pot works well for one or two rhizomes.
- Clay or ceramic pots offer better moisture regulation than plastic ones.
Ideal Potting Mix
- Mix 2 parts multi-purpose compost, 1 part perlite or coarse sand, and optionally 1 part leaf mould or coco coir.
- Avoid heavy, compacted soil.
Potting Instructions
- Soak rhizomes in lukewarm water for 2-3 hours.
- Fill the pot two-thirds with moist compost mix.
- Place rhizomes with growth points facing upward.
- Cover with 5-7 cm of compost and water thoroughly.
- Position in a warm, bright indoor location.
Stage 2: Encouraging healthy Calla Lily growth indoors
Sprouting typically takes 2-4 weeks under ideal indoor conditions.
Light Requirements
- Provide bright, indirect light.
- Protect from harsh midday sun, which can scorch foliage.
- Use a grow light if natural light is limited.
Temperature & Environment
- Daytime: 18-22 degrees C; Night: not below 13 degrees C.
- Avoid cold draughts or placing near radiators/heaters.
Watering Schedule
- Water when top 2-3 cm of soil is dry.
- Never allow compost to stay soggy.
- Empty saucers regularly to avoid standing water.
Humidity
- Mist lightly 1-2 times weekly, especially in dry rooms.
- Alternatively, use a humidity tray with pebbles and water.
Stage 3: Feeding for foliage and flowers
- Begin feeding when shoots reach 10 cm.
- Use a balanced fertiliser every 10-14 days in spring/summer.
- Switch to high-potash feed (e.g. tomato feed) once flowering starts.
- Stop feeding entirely by late autumn.
Stage 4: Repotting and potting on Calla Lillies
When to Repot
- Every 1-2 years, ideally in late winter or early spring.
- Signs include:
- Roots outgrowing pot
- Poor flowering
- Compost dries out quickly
How to Repot
- Gently remove from pot and shake off old soil.
- Divide rhizomes if necessary, ensuring each has a growing point.
- Replant in fresh compost in a clean pot.
- Water and return to a warm, bright place.
Stage 5: End of season and winter dormancy
Letting Them Die Back Naturally
- Reduce watering in autumn as leaves yellow.
- Cut back dead foliage to 2-3 cm above soil.
- Move pot to a cool, dark, frost-free location (8-13 degrees C).
- Water just enough every 4-6 weeks to prevent shrivelling.
Lifting and Storing Rhizomes
- Lift once dormant, rinse and dry for several days.
- Store in paper bags or boxes with dry peat or sawdust.
- Keep in a dark, cool place until spring.
Annual growing calendar
| Month | Task | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| February-April | Pot rhizomes, begin active growth | Use well-draining soil; keep in warm, bright area but out of direct sun. |
| May-August | Regular feeding, watering, flowering | Feed every 2-4 weeks with balanced fertiliser; avoid waterlogging. |
| September-October | Reduce watering, foliage dies back | Allow foliage to yellow naturally; stop feeding. |
| November-January | Dormancy period, little to no water | Store in a cool, dry place; check for rot or pests occasionally. |
| February-March | Begin again with potting or repotting | Divide rhizomes if crowded; refresh soil before new season. |
Extra tips for success growing Calla Lillies
- Rotate pots weekly for even growth.
- Wipe leaves to remove dust.
- Keep tools and pots clean to avoid disease.
- Keep away from pets - calla lilies are mildly toxic if ingested.
Common indoor problems (and solutions)
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering or nutrient deficiency | Reduce watering, apply regular feed |
| No flowers | Too little light or pot-bound roots | Move to brighter spot, repot if needed |
| Brown leaf tips | Low humidity | Mist or use humidity tray |
| Aphids/spider mites | Dry air, stressed plant | Wipe leaves, apply neem oil or soap spray |
Growing Calla Lillies in pots - Final thoughts
Growing Calla Lilies indoors in the UK is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. Their sculptural blooms and rich foliage make them stunning centrepieces or decorative additions to any indoor space. With consistent care, attention to their seasonal needs, and a gentle hand during dormancy, Calla Lilies will return year after year to grace your home with their quiet elegance.
