Canna Lilies

Big and bold. That is one way to describe the blooms as well as the foliage of the Canna Lilies. From the bush-like varieties such as 'The President' to the more petite dwarf varieties, Cannas are known for their lush, tropical leaves and bright almost electric colors. Even more importantly, Cannas are relatively easy-to-grow and put on a show that last for several weeks during the mid-summer season.

Canna lilies are quite versatile in their uses and do well when grown as backdrops or focal points in garden beds as well as containers. A very popular plant for commercial properties, these plants can stand up well to harsh conditions such as direct sunlight and strong summer breezes. These tropical wonders also look right at home when planted along the edges of ponds and other water features.

Planting Cannas

1. Canna rhizomes are typically planted during the spring season.
2. Choose a planting location that receives bright, direct sunlight for best results. Also be sure that the soil is well-drained as cannas do not like to sit wet.
3. Depending on the variety, space canna rhizomes approximately 12-24" apart. If planting in a container, consider placing a few rhizomes in the center for a focal point.
4. Examine the rhizomes for any signs of growth. More often than not, a rhizome will contain one to several small "points". This is where the plant will sprout from. If able to determine the location of these "points", plant the rhizome horizontal to the ground with this side facing upwards.
5. Thoroughly soak the area with water once the rhizomes have been planted. Continue to water throughout the growing season, being careful not to provide too much moisture. Fertilize plants once per month if desired with a well-balanced water soluble fertilizer while actively growing.
6. Remove finished blooms to maintain a clean appearance and encourage reblooming.
7. Allow plants to continue growing up until just before or just after the first frost. This enables them to produce food for next year's growth. If planted in containers, force the bulbs into dormancy by gradually withholding water at this point.
8. Gently dig rhizomes out of the ground and allow them to dry out on a cool, dry surface, such as a screen, paper bag, or garage/shed floor. When the stems break free from the bulb, dust off any extra soil and allow tubers to cure in the sun for 4-7 days.
9. Store the rhizomes for winter in open flats containing dry peat moss or in dry paper bags. Place flats or bags in a dry place which remains consisting below 55 degrees but does not freeze, such as a cellar, basement, or garage.
10. Replant in spring according to the above instructions.