Actually, calla lilies
are hardy in the ground in zone 7 Oklahoma. Many people grow them here.
Kind of like glads and dahlias are hardy in the ground here, too, even
tho they are only supposed to be hardy to zone 8. In the PNW they may not be because it is wetter there, and wet/cold will rot tubers/bulbs/rhizomes more than dry/cold.
We
definitely do not get the moisture that the PNW does. However, in
Chicago, these beauties will not be hardy in the ground, but you can
bring the pots indoors as Riz suggests. They do like a dormant state,
though, so I would let the foliage die back, as you would any bulb, to
allow the dying foliage to feed the tubers. Then allow the pot to go
dry, watering minimally just to keep the tuber from dissecating. Around
late February-March, or when you begin to see some green growth again,
start watering and fertilizing again. When the nights are in the middle
50s consistently, you can move them outside.
I buy a lot of stuff from HD just for the price. But I wouldn't rely on their advice for planting or culture...ever!
Susan
