Calla lilies (genus Zantedeschia ) are prized for their sleek, trumpet-shaped blooms and architectural foliage. Whether you are buying fresh-cut stems for a bouquet or potted plants to grow at home, selecting high-quality specimens is the first step to ensuring long-lasting beauty. 1. How to Select the Freshest Cut Flowers
When purchasing cut calla lilies from a florist or market, use these visual and tactile cues to ensure freshness: buy calla lily flowers
: For the best value and variety, buy dormant rhizomes in late winter or early spring. Select rhizomes that are large, firm, and plump ; larger rhizomes typically produce more spectacular blooms and larger plants. 3. Choosing the Right Color and Variety Calla lilies (genus Zantedeschia ) are prized for
: Look for blooms that are firm and free of wrinkles, blemishes, or watermarks. The "petal" (spathe) should feel smooth and slightly waxy. How to Select the Freshest Cut Flowers When
: Stems should be firm and green all the way to the bottom. Avoid any that feel mushy or slimy at the base.
: If buying at a flower market, look for vendors who sell them dry rather than in water. This often indicates they have been recently received and are at their freshest. 2. Buying Potted Plants and Rhizomes
: Usually available in spring and summer. Choose plants with healthy, upright, arrow-shaped leaves. Avoid plants with yellowing foliage or signs of pests like aphids.