Calla Lily, known by many names such as Calla, Zantedeschia, Arum, Aethopicum, and Arum Lily, is an ultra chic choice for any occasion. The Calla Lily is available in white, but hybrid "Mini Callas" have a range of other colors including natural green, yellow, burgundy, pink and orange. The Calla Lily's signature funnel shaped cone and curved stems create soft, graceful lines. Stand alone or mixed with other flowers Callas make a statement. Following a few simple care and handling tips, Calla Lily will perform extremely well and add magnificent flair to your designs!
Problems & Solutions
Problem:
Ethylene Sensitivity
Solution:
Though Callas typically have a low sensitivity to ethylene, it has been documented that using anti-ethylene products such as FloraLife® EthylGuard* at farm level or EthylBloc™ during shipping and storage slows flower opening and increases vase life.
Problem:
Botrytis Sensitivity
Solution:
Flowers can be infected with Botrytis. Do not over pack buckets with bunches to allow enough breathing room between stems. Respect the cold chain and avoid temperature fluctuations. Do not get water on or handle the flowers by their blooms.
Problem:
Prone to Physical/Mechanical Damage
Solution:
Stems are soft so stems and blooms tend to bruise easily. For best results when packing, be sure bunches are securely fastened in the box but do not pull straps too tight.
Problem:
Tip Browning
Solution:
The spathe of the calla is susceptible to browning, use FloraLife® Calla Lily* as a pre-treatment to low the risks.
Problem:
Foul Water
Solution:
Thick stems tend to become slimy and decay quickly in water causing not only foul smelling water but shrink/waste. Changing the solution often is necessary to avoid this from happening.
Need to Know: Calla Lily Helpful Hints
Properly Mixed Flower Food: The Benefits
- Helps Callas stay hydrated and avoid wilting
- Longer vase life
- Better color retention
Keep it Fresh!
- Pre-treatments such as FloraLife® Calla Lily 100* at farm level help maintain the quality of blooms. Use anti-ethylene products such as FloraLife® EthylGuard* at farm level or EthylBloc™ during shipping and storage to minimize any risk from exposure to ethylene.
- Recommended flower food solution for storage/transport: FloraLife® Express Clear ULTRA 200, FloraLife® Clear 200.
- Recommended flower food solution for end consumers: FloraLife® Bulb Food packets*, FloraLife® Express 300 packets or FloraLife Crystal Clear®*.
- Cooler / Storage temperature should be 34-38°F, 1-3°C.
- Callas can ship dry or wet pack as long as you maintain flower food solution if shipping wet, and whether wet or dry, the cold chain throughout the distribution process.
- Use FloraLife® Transport Paper sheets for shipping and storage.
Performance
- Average vase life for Calla Lily is anywhere from 4 to10 days depending on if they are designed in vase or foam and how often water is changed.
- Opening speed does not apply to Callas as they are shipped and sold at an open cut point.
- Callas can be mixed with other flowers without harmful effects.
- Calla Lily should be received with the spathe open and the spadix can be seen. Avoid transparent, wrinkled, or browning blooms. Stems should be firm but pliable. There should be no pollen on the stamen, this forms as the flowers age and is a sign they are not fresh.
- When processing or designing, use FloraLife® Bulb Food Clear 300* if it is available in your region, and change solution often to avoid slimy stems.
- Performs well in foam but tends to last longer in a vase arrangement. If designing in foam use OASIS® MaxLife for best hydration. Check foam often to be sure flowers stay hydrated.
- Use FloraLife® Finishing Touch spray once designs are complete to keep blooms fresh and hydrated.
FIFO
- It's always best to follow FIFO (First In First Out) inventory rotation to ensure flowers are their freshest, following cold chain protocols. Maximum storage for Calla Lily is no more than 5 days.
Want to learn more or get some sound advice on how to care for your Calla Lily? Visit FloraLife.com or contact your local representation for an in-person consultation!
*Product availability depends upon geographical region. Check here for more information.