Is Calla Lilly hardy to Northern Italy (zone8b)

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sasha10 Valsolda, Italy(Zone 9b) Mar 08, 2009

I have a Calla Lilly. I want to plant it on my terrace. Will it be fine here in zone 8b? It never gets too cold here. It is almost always above freezing during the day and at night never falls below -10C (usually -3C).

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DebiH Fort Payne, AL Mar 10, 2009

I think you're going to have trouble when it freezes during the winter, especially if it's planted in a container. However, if it's in a container you could bring it in to winter over. I've lived in several different zones in the US and only had luck putting them in the ground in Southern California.

I've spent a lot of time in northern italy and have never noticed calla lilies even in the 'famous gardens' like Villa Carlotta on Lake Como, so I'm doubtful, but perhaps Bulgaria is just enough different.

Good luck!
Debi

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sasha10 Valsolda, Italy(Zone 9b) Mar 13, 2009

I have taken it outside now since it is quite warm. In winter I will bring it in. Do I have to dig up the bulb in winter or can I leave it in the pot.

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edgeoftheworld Conneaut, OH(Zone 5a) Mar 15, 2009

I plant mine in the ground.Lift in the fall.Remove all foilage.Wash off all the soil.Dry them out for a couple of weeks.Dust them with foot powder for the antifungal properties.Wrap them lightly in newspaper and forget about them till spring.When I open them up in the spring,usually they have already started to sprout.You might get away with leaving them in the pot.If you could get it dry enough.I have always been worried they might rot.They are expensive.I never wanted to take the chance.Edge

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sasha10 Valsolda, Italy(Zone 9b) Mar 15, 2009

Thank you. Mine were quite cheap and I will bring them in in the pot. I won't water them.

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DebiH Fort Payne, AL Mar 17, 2009

Right. Cut back the foliage and keep them somewhere dark.

Sasha, I'm a tour director and I pass through Como every two weeks when I'm working (staring in about three weeks, by the way). My groups go to Villa Carlotta, Bellaggio, and we boat down to Como before heading on our way. All I can say is that most beautiful hydrangeas I've seen in my entire life are in your area and I hope you have a GOB! I've been in Villa Carlotta so many times that I usually only still go with my group when the hydrangeas are blooming...

By the way, I've VERY interested to hear any thoughts you would care to share regarding how things like the economy are going... if you're willing, maybe send me a Dmail?

Thanks and tante bene cose,
Debi

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