The Cultivation Method and Precautions for Colorful Calla Lilies
Among numerous ornamental plants, colorful calla lilies are highly favored for their unique spathe and rich flower colors. This bulbous flower, native to Africa, can bloom throughout the year with scientific management, but special attention must be paid to its growing habits and maintenance details.
Three Basic Maintenance Elements
Soil Medium Configuration
Use a double-layer matrix method: the bottom layer is铺ed with 3cm coarse river sand to enhance drainage, and the top layer is mixed with sandy soil: decomposed leaf soil = 2:1. When repotting every year, retain 1/3 of the protective soil, and the new soil needs to be sun-dried and disinfected.
Temperature and Light Smart Adjustment
In spring and autumn, maintain a natural growth of 22-28°C, move it to the north-facing windowsill when it exceeds 32°C in summer, and maintain above 15°C in winter. Ensure 4 hours of scattered light daily before the flowering period, and use a gauze curtain to filter ultraviolet rays during strong light periods.
Accurate Water Control
Use the "dry-wet" method: when there is no dampness at 2/3 of the bamboo stake inserted into the soil, water thoroughly. In summer, add 0.1% beer solution to the morning and evening sprays, which keeps the moisture and supplements amino acids.
Advanced Management Techniques
Flowering Control Technology
Immediately cut off the base of the flower stem 3cm after flowering, leaving 2 functional leaves. Add 0.01% magnesium sulfate to the phosphorus and potassium fertilizer every month, which can make the flower color more vibrant.
Root Health Management
The Cultivation Method and Precautions for Colorful Calla Lilies
Use a disinfected scissor to cut diagonally the rotten roots when repotting, and apply wood ash to the incision. The new pot diameter should be 5cm larger than the original pot, with a layer of ceramsite to prevent waterlogging.
Common Problem Handling
Physiological Yellow Leaves
Old leaves turning yellow is part of normal metabolism, while new leaves turning yellow need to be supplemented with chelated iron fertilizer. Suddenly large areas of yellow leaves should check the EC value of the pot soil, and leach salt if it exceeds 1.5ms/cm.
Analysis of Flowering Obstacles
Continuous high temperatures above 30°C can cause the spathe to wither, which can be addressed by using a pot-in-pot cooling method: filling the outer large pot with wet peat moss. Supplement light for 2 hours daily (illuminance 2000lux) when there is insufficient light.
Safe Maintenance Notice
Immediately rinse with running water for 15 minutes after contact with the juice, and it is recommended to place it on a shelf higher than 1.5 meters in children's rooms. Move it to a ventilated area at night to avoid discomfort caused by the volatilization of alkaloids.
Mastering these maintenance essentials, colorful calla lilies can be continuously appreciated for 3-5 years. Regularly observe the plant's condition and adjust the maintenance plan in time to enjoy the unique flower posture of velvet-like flowers all year round.