From my perspective as a calla lily rhizome, I am not truly dormant; I am resting and gathering strength. Forcing me is not about coercion, but about providing the perfect conditions to convince my internal biological clock that it is time to break my rest and initiate the magnificent bloom you desire. Here is what I need from you.
First, you must understand and respect my need for a dormant period. After my flowering show, my foliage will naturally yellow and wither. This is not a sign of death but a signal that I am drawing energy back from my leaves into my rhizome body for storage. Do not cut away the green leaves prematurely! Allow them to die back completely on their own. This process is how I photosynthesize and store the crucial carbohydrates that will fuel my next bloom. Interrupting this process starves me, leaving me without the energy to produce a flower.
In my native habitat, I experience a dry season following my growth period. You must replicate this. Once my foliage has completely died back, stop watering me entirely. Place my pot in a cool, dark, and dry location, like a basement or garage, where temperatures are ideally between 50-60°F (10-15°C). This cool, dry rest for a period of 8-10 weeks is non-negotiable. It is during this time that I consolidate my energy and my flower buds internally develop. Without this period of hibernation, I will likely only produce leaves, if I regrow at all.
After my mandatory rest, you can唤醒 me. Bring me out into a warm, bright space with plenty of indirect sunlight. Repotting me in fresh, well-draining potting mix at this stage is ideal, as it provides new nutrients and space. When you plant me, ensure my eyes (the little growing bumps) are facing upward and that I am buried only about 1-2 inches deep. Begin watering me sparingly at first. As you see my first green shoots emerge, gradually increase the watering. The combination of warmth and moisture tells me the rainy season has begun, and it is safe to send up new growth.
Once my leaves are actively growing, I will need proper nutrition to support a flower stalk. Begin feeding me with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, but after a few weeks, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus (the middle number on the package). Phosphorus is the nutrient that directly supports bud formation and flowering. Be patient. I will first focus my energy on establishing a strong root system and lush leaves. The flower will come only after I am fully re-established and feel strong enough to support its impressive structure.
