Growing Canna

Pronunciation: can'uh 

Spacing: 18–24″ or 1 per 18″ pot, depth: 2–3″. Full sun.

Wait to plant Cannas until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to 60°F. To get a jump on a short growing season, start rhizomes indoors by potting up as soon as they arrive and placing in a warm, sunny location. Move them outdoors after the last frost date in your area. Acclimate transplants to outdoor conditions slowly to avoid scorching the foliage.

Plant in average to damp soil. If rhizomes are started prior to planting, they will also grow in soggy soil or even shallow water. Plant the rhizomes horizontally, with the eye (bud) facing up. Fertilize after planting with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) and again in late July. Remove spent flowers to keep plants looking tidy and to encourage rebloom. Where summers are long and hot, Cannas may grow much taller than indicated on the label. For more compact plants, cut back to the 3rd or 4th leaf (i.e., to a height of about 36″) after each round of flowering.

Cannas are hardy to Zone 7 (0°F). In colder climates, they can be overwintered indoors. After the first frost in fall, cut the stems to the ground and lift the clump of rhizomes with a spade or fork. Store in a dry, well-ventilated place where the temperature is cool (50°-60°F). If plants are grown in containers, you may also allow the pot to dry out and then stored it in a cool location.

For information on planting and care of annuals, click here