Rhode Island’s short growing season demands starting calla lilies indoors six weeks before the last frost. The best time to plant calla lily in rhode island is after the danger of frost has passed, typically in late May or early June. This timing ensures your tender bulbs avoid cold damage and thrive in the Ocean State’s unique climate.
Calla lilies are not true lilies, but they are stunning perennials that add elegance to gardens. They grow from rhizomes, not bulbs, and need warm soil to sprout. In Rhode Island, you have a narrow window to get them right.
This guide covers everything you need to know about planting calla lilies in Rhode Island. We’ll break down indoor starting, outdoor transplanting, and care tips. Let’s get your calla lilies blooming beautifully.
Understanding Rhode Island’s Growing Zones
Rhode Island falls mostly in USDA hardiness zones 6a and 6b. Some coastal areas are zone 7a. These zones mean cold winters and mild summers. Your last frost date typically ranges from April 15 to May 15, depending on your location.
Calla lilies are hardy in zones 8-10. In Rhode Island, you must treat them as annuals or dig up the rhizomes for winter storage. They cannot survive freezing ground temperatures.
Knowing your specific zone helps you plan. Check your town’s average last frost date. For example, Providence usually has its last frost around April 20. Newport might be a week later due to ocean influence.
Why Timing Matters For Calla Lilies
Calla lilies need 60-90 days from planting to bloom. If you plant them too late, they won’t flower before fall frost. If you plant too early, cold soil rots the rhizomes.
Indoor starting gives you a head start. You can plant rhizomes in pots six weeks before the last frost. This way, they have strong roots when you move them outside.
Outdoor planting should happen when soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. Use a soil thermometer to check. Cold soil stunts growth and invites disease.
Best Time To Plant Calla Lily In Rhode Island
The best time to plant calla lily in rhode island is after the last spring frost, when soil has warmed. For most of the state, this means late May through early June. Coastal areas may plant a bit earlier, but inland spots need to wait.
If you start indoors, begin six weeks before your last frost. For a May 1 last frost, start indoors around March 20. This gives you strong plants ready for transplanting.
For direct outdoor planting, wait until night temperatures stay above 50°F. Calla lilies are sensitive to cold. A surprise frost can kill them.
Indoor Starting Schedule
Starting calla lilies indoors is simple. Follow these steps for success:
- Choose a pot with drainage holes, about 6-8 inches wide.
- Fill with well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the rhizome 2-3 inches deep with the growing points facing up.
- Water lightly and place in a warm spot (65-70°F).
- Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Provide bright, indirect light once sprouts appear.
- Harden off plants for 7-10 days before transplanting.
Start this process six weeks before your last frost date. Mark your calendar so you don’t forget.
Outdoor Planting Schedule
For direct outdoor planting, wait until late May. Here’s a timeline for Rhode Island:
- Late May: Plant in southern coastal areas (Newport, Narragansett).
- Early June: Plant in central and northern areas (Providence, Warwick).
- Mid-June: Plant in colder inland spots (Foster, Glocester).
Always check the 10-day weather forecast. If cold rain is predicted, wait. Calla lilies hate wet, cold feet.
Preparing Your Garden Soil
Calla lilies need rich, well-draining soil. Rhode Island’s native soil is often rocky or clay-heavy. Amend it before planting.
Test your soil pH. Calla lilies prefer slightly acidic soil, pH 6.0-6.5. Add lime if too acidic, or sulfur if too alkaline.
Mix in organic matter like compost or aged manure. This improves drainage and adds nutrients. Work it into the top 8-10 inches of soil.
If you have heavy clay, consider raised beds. They warm up faster and drain better. Calla lilies will thank you.
Choosing The Right Location
Calla lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade. In Rhode Island’s cool summers, full sun works well. But afternoon shade can help in hot spells.
Pick a spot protected from strong winds. Wind can damage tall flower stalks. A south-facing bed near a wall is ideal.
Avoid low spots where water pools. Wet roots cause rot. If your garden is wet, plant in containers instead.
Planting Calla Lilies Step By Step
Here’s how to plant calla lilies in Rhode Island:
- Dig a hole 4-6 inches deep for each rhizome.
- Space holes 12-18 inches apart.
- Place the rhizome with growing points facing up.
- Cover with soil and water gently.
- Add a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture.
For container planting, use pots with drainage holes. Plant one rhizome per 8-inch pot or three per 12-inch pot. Use quality potting mix.
Water thoroughly after planting. Then water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering is a common mistake.
Fertilizing For Best Blooms
Calla lilies are heavy feeders. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 or a bloom booster like 5-10-10.
Stop fertilizing in late summer. This helps the plant prepare for dormancy. If you plan to store rhizomes, let them rest.
Organic options work well too. Compost tea or fish emulsion are good choices. Apply according to package directions.
Dealing With Rhode Island’s Weather
Rhode Island weather can be unpredictable. Here’s how to handle common challenges:
- Late frost: Cover plants with frost cloth or old sheets overnight.
- Heavy rain: Ensure good drainage. Move containers under cover if needed.
- Drought: Water deeply once a week. Mulch helps retain moisture.
- Hot spell: Provide afternoon shade. Water more frequently.
Calla lilies are surprisingly tough once established. But they need protection from extremes.
Pests And Diseases In Rhode Island
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Check plants weekly. Wash off aphids with a strong spray of water. Use insecticidal soap for severe infestations.
Slugs love calla lilies. Set out beer traps or use diatomaceous earth around plants. Handpick them at night if needed.
Diseases like root rot and leaf spot occur in wet conditions. Prevent by watering at soil level, not overhead. Space plants for good air circulation.
Extending The Bloom Season
You can enjoy calla lilies longer by staggering planting. Plant some rhizomes indoors early, and others directly outdoors later. This gives you blooms from July through September.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Cut the flower stalk at the base. Leave the foliage to feed the rhizome.
In Rhode Island, calla lilies bloom from mid-summer to early fall. With care, you can extend this by a few weeks.
When To Dig Up Rhizomes For Winter
Calla lilies cannot survive Rhode Island winters outdoors. Dig up rhizomes after the first frost kills the foliage. Usually this is in October.
Here’s how to store them:
- Cut back foliage to 2 inches above the rhizome.
- Gently dig up the rhizomes. Shake off excess soil.
- Let them dry in a warm, airy place for a week.
- Store in peat moss or vermiculite in a cool, dark spot (45-55°F).
- Check monthly for rot or shriveling. Discard bad ones.
Replant them next spring after the last frost. They will bloom again.
Container Growing For Rhode Island Gardens
Containers are a great option for calla lilies in Rhode Island. You can move them to catch sun or avoid bad weather. They also warm up faster than garden soil.
Use pots at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes. Fill with quality potting mix. Plant rhizomes 2-3 inches deep.
Water container plants more often than garden plants. They dry out faster. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season.
In fall, you can bring containers indoors before frost. Let them go dormant in a cool, dark place. Water sparingly until spring.
Companion Plants For Calla Lilies
Calla lilies pair well with other moisture-loving plants. Good companions include:
- Hostas
- Ferns
- Astilbe
- Impatiens
- Begonias
These plants have similar light and water needs. They create a lush, tropical look in your Rhode Island garden.
Avoid planting calla lilies near aggressive spreaders like mint. They will compete for resources.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Here are frequent errors Rhode Island gardeners make:
- Planting too early: Wait until soil is warm. Cold soil kills rhizomes.
- Overwatering: Calla lilies like moisture but not soggy feet. Let soil dry between waterings.
- Planting too deep: Rhizomes should be 2-3 inches deep. Deeper planting delays growth.
- Ignoring frost dates: Always check your local forecast. A late frost can ruin your plants.
- Not digging up rhizomes: They will rot in frozen ground. Store them indoors.
Avoid these mistakes, and your calla lilies will thrive.
Varieties Best Suited For Rhode Island
Some calla lily varieties perform better in cool climates. Consider these:
- ‘Crystal Blush’ – White with pink blush, compact size.
- ‘Flame’ – Orange-yellow, heat-tolerant.
- ‘Black Star’ – Deep purple, almost black, striking.
- ‘Pink Melody’ – Soft pink, good for containers.
- ‘White Giant’ – Large white blooms, tall stems.
These varieties bloom reliably in Rhode Island’s growing season. They also handle humidity well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant calla lilies in Rhode Island in July?
It’s possible but not ideal. July planting means blooms in late September, which risks early frost. Stick to spring planting for best results.
Do calla lilies come back every year in Rhode Island?
No, they are not winter hardy here. You must dig up and store rhizomes indoors each fall. Replant them next spring.
How deep should I plant calla lily rhizomes in Rhode Island?
Plant them 2-3 inches deep. Deeper planting can delay growth and reduce blooms.
What is the best fertilizer for calla lilies in Rhode Island?
Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 every two weeks during the growing season. Stop in late summer.
Can I leave calla lilies in pots over winter in Rhode Island?
Yes, if you move the pots to a cool, dark place like a basement or garage. Keep the soil barely moist. They will go dormant.
Final Tips For Success
Growing calla lilies in Rhode Island is rewarding. Start them indoors for a head start. Plant them outside after the last frost. Give them rich soil and regular water.
Protect them from cold and pests. Dig up rhizomes in fall for winter storage. With these steps, you will enjoy beautiful blooms all summer.
Remember, the key is timing. The best time to plant calla lily in rhode island is late May to early June. Mark your calendar and prepare your garden. Your calla lilies will thank you with stunning flowers.
Happy gardening in the Ocean State. Your calla lilies will be the envy of the neighborhood.