CALLA so bella!

MAKE YOUR GARDEN LOUD AND PROUD AS YOU TRUMPET YOUR SKILLS WITH LILIES

1 WITH JUST A SINGLE WRAPAROUND

Bract – called a spathe – you get style, grace and sophistication in one bloom. But don’t hold back – plants lotsa callas!

2 BRIGHTEN UP YOUR BALCONY, DECK OR PATIO by featuring calla lilies in a pot. They can grow up to 1m tall though, so make sure your container or pot is sturdy enough not to topple over.

For a classy, elegant look in your garden – or in a vase indoors – you can’t go past calla lilies. While not a true lily, the smooth, unfurling flowers are exquisite, with chalice-like blooms in a huge range of rich and delicate shades. Plant them in a formal, informal or cottage garden bed, in a container as a welcome at your front door or on balconies for a beautiful summer bonus. Seize the chance to get creative!

PLANTING CALLA LILIES

The easiest way to grow calla lilies is from rhizomes in spring or when frosts have finished.

• Choose rhizomes that are large, plump and firm. The bigger the rhizome, the bigger the plant and its flowers.

• Dig holes about 8cm deep and 15-30cm apart.

• Set the rhizome in the hole with the eyes (growing tips) facing up.

• Cover it with soil and then water lightly.

• Once leaves appear, after about two weeks, begin watering more generously.

• Flowers will begin to appear amid the long, lush, arrow-shaped leaves at about 14-16 weeks and will last from four weeks to several months, depending on light, temperature and variety.

• Foliage dies down during autumn and winter.