Calla lilies are not the first flowers associated with bulb plants but they share the house with potted tulips and daffodils in the spring. The difference is that potted calla lilies are available year-round in shades of pinks, pale creams and flesh tones, purple-black, yellow and terracotta oranges.

The striking white blooms and glossy green leaves of Zantedeschia or calla lily (not related to the true lily) have long made it a popular potted plant. The hybrid "mini-callas', with their elegant shape and wide range of colors, continue to increase in importance as a potted plant in Ontario. The showy ‘spath' is a leaf-like organ that surrounds the true flowers, the thick fleshy ‘spadix'.

When picking Ontario grown calla lilies, look for plants with bright green leaves with no yellow tips, open flowers and emerging spikes. The petals are fleshy and very easily bruised so take care when transporting or watering them.

Potted calla lilies prefer to live in well-lit locations, just shy of full sun. Check for water every couple of days until you become familiar with the plant's needs. The soil should be kept moist at all times. Feed every two weeks while the plant is flowering with a balanced liquid fertilizer. If the calla lily plant is growing, but not flowering, feed monthly. If not growing, feed every two or three months.