Calla lilies are dainty flowering plants that come in white, pink, yellow, black and purple. Their name derives from the Greek word, ‘calla’, meaning beautiful, and they are popular in bridal bouquets. These plants grow from rhizomes and are best used in flower beds and as borders. They are cultivated both as indoor or outdoor plants and, like most plants, they also suffer from diseases and infections which may cause yellowing leaves.
Calla lily leaves turning yellow: What are the common reasons?
1. Overwatering
One of the reasons calla lily leaves turn yellow is overwatering. The leaves may also appear mushy or droopy. You may also be using the wrong type of soil,resulting in stagnant water on the roots. Having poor drainage starves the roots of oxygen and nutrients are not properly absorbed.
Calla lilies prefer slightly moist soil, but do not like standing in water since this could lead to root rot. You should water the plants when the top few inches of soil have dried out and the lower part is still slightly moist. Water them weekly, or depending on how fast the soil drains.
The ideal soil for calla lilies is well-draining soil, to avoid standing water. Be sure to remove the yellow leaves so the plants use less energy on keeping their leaves alive.
2. Nutrient deficiency
Calla lily leaves turning yellow could also indicate a nutrient deficiency. Leaves tend to lose their original color when chlorophyll is not being produced sufficiently. This condition is known as chlorosis.
If you suspect that the yellowing is due to nutrient deficiency, inspect the roots. Healthy roots should be firm and white; if they are mushy, dark and fall apart easily, it is an indication of root rot.
Check that the soil you have been using is still ideal, as it may need to be replaced with fresh soil. Fertilizing is also recommended and re-potting may be done during the spring season.
3. Repotting stress
Calla lily leaves may turn yellow when they experience transplant or repotting stress. If they are transferred to new containers that do not have the right fit, or if the soil has a different texture, the plants could experience stress. The leaves become yellow and droopy, and some may fall off after a while. Thankfully this is just temporary; just make sure that the plants are potted in spacious planters.
4. Pest infestation
Calla lilies are also prone to pest attacks. Fungus gnats and spider mites could infest your plants, resulting in the yellowing of leaves. These pests suck the sap or juice from your plants, causing those plant parts to wilt and turn yellow.
To treat pest infestation, spray good quality neem oil on the affected plant areas. You should also drench the soil with an organic pesticide if there are fungus gnats. Trim or remove the yellow leaves, too.
5. Natural causes
Calla lily leaves turning yellow may just be due to natural causes and not a cause for concern. Leaves naturally begin to die and fall off right before the dormancy period.
Tips on growing calla lilies
Calla lilies are rich with symbolism and history and are easy to grow. They do not require too much attention and you only have to consider proper planting and location. These beauties need to be planted in loose, well-drained soil. They like full sun or partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
Calla lilies are usually planted during springtime. Make sure that the soil has warmed well and there is no more threat of frost before planting them. These plants should be planted about four inches deep into the soil and spaced approximately a foot apart. You should water the area after you have planted them.
Calla lilies grow best in groups on flower beds. These plants prefer their soil moist and should be fertilized monthly during the growing season. However, handle them with caution as they are poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.
Conclusion
Calla lilies are popular for their dainty and unique flowers that are popular for weddings and other social occasions. Their leaves may turn yellow because of overwatering, nutrient deficiency, pest infestation, repotting stress, or simply just due to natural causes.
Image: istockphoto.com / Cristina Ionescu