Bulbs: My calas did not bloom, 1 by SteveIndy

SteveIndy wrote:
Hi 9283,

I have read so much conflicting advice on callas it is hard to know where to go. Most "experts" say they're tender bulbs that have to be lifed in the fall in zones 7/8 and colder. I read on one site that they're likely to be herbaceous perennials in zone 7 and father north, and on others that they won't survive temps below 10-20F. Some sites say they like partial shade, and others say full sun. They do like lots of water, and very moist soil in any case.

I will tell you what worked for me. I planted a bunch of calla roots, different types, in the spring here in N. Texas two years ago. Got some flowers the first year, but not a lot. The second year I forgot about them and completely neglected them, thinking at the time they wouldn't survive winters here and that the summer sun was too intense for them.. Some were in pots, always outside, but most were in the ground. Mine were all in full (Texas) sun. Well, second year they ALL popped up again, and with many more flowers than the first. They bloomed over a wide period of time, from the beginning of May through mid-June. I have read that partial shade will promote longer flowering stems, and mine to be honest were on the short side. Most of them in my back yard were in a raised bed that stays somewhat moist but not overly so. So...I would say, make sure they're getting enough sun, and make sure they're not getting too much nitrogen...you could try fertilizing with a higher phosphorus-content fertilizer. In general, with most plants, nitrogen promotes leaf/foliage growth, and phosphorus promotes flower development. Try something like "Bloom Booster" from Miracle-Gro. I am sure in your area they're getting sufficient moisture. What zone are you in? You seem awfully far north to treat callas as an outdoor plant.