Should the Corm of Calla Lily Be Dug Out After Dormancy?
The elegant posture of the Calla Lily always makes it hard to resist, but many gardening enthusiasts often encounter a dilemma during summer maintenance—whether to dig out the corm during the dormant period? Does it need to be stored in the refrigerator? Today, we will explore the management rules of Calla Lily's dormant period based on its plant growth characteristics.
One, Analysis of Calla Lily's Dormancy Characteristics
1.1 Changes in the Plant During Dormancy
When the temperature exceeds 28℃, the leaves of Calla Lily start to turn yellow and wilt, which is a typical sign of dormancy. The underground corm stops the differentiation of new buds, and the outer scales gradually lignify to resist high temperatures.
1.2 Differences in Treatment in Different Regions
In dry northern regions, the corm can be left in the soil for preservation, while in humid southern regions, it must be lifted. Terrestrial plants have stronger resistance, while pot-grown ones are recommended to lift 100% of the corms.
Two, Guide to Lifting Corms of Calla Lily
2.1 Best Timing for Lifting Corms
Wait 15 days after the above-ground stem completely turns yellow and withers, and choose to operate during consecutive sunny weather. By this time, the corm has completed nutrient regression, and the water content has decreased to a safe level.
2.2 Professional Five-Step Method
Shake off soil → Rinse → Disinfect (soak in a solution of 1000 times the concentration of carbendazim for 20 minutes) → Dry (in a well-ventilated, shaded area for 3-5 days) → Grade (classify and store based on a corm diameter of 3cm as the boundary)
Three, Key Points of Calla Lily Cold Storage Technology
3.1 Accurate Temperature Control
The ideal cold storage temperature is maintained at 5-7℃, and it is necessary to avoid temperature fluctuations exceeding ±2℃. An electronic temperature controller combined with a refrigerator-specific thermometer can be used for double monitoring.
3.2 Humidity Management System
It is recommended to use microporous wax paper as the wrapping material, and place a small pack of food-grade desiccant inside. Check for signs of mildew every two weeks by opening the box.
Four, Correction of Common Maintenance Misconceptions
4.1 Alternative to Cold Storage
Storage in an air-conditioned room needs to maintain a constant temperature day and night, and a dehumidifier should be equipped for storage in a basement. Regardless of the method used, a cold treatment cycle of more than 60 days must be met.
4.2 Judging the Time for Replanting
Replanting can be done when the day-night temperature difference stabilizes at 8-10℃. Planting too early can lead to secondary dormancy, and planting too late may miss the best growing period.
Mastering the management rules of Calla Lily's dormant period can not only avoid corm loss but also increase the flower output by more than 30% the following year. Remember the key operational points and配合 scientific storage methods, and you can enjoy the pure and elegant posture of this flower year after year.