Question
Can I leave Canna Lillies in the ground over the winter?  I live near Boise, ID.  I plan on taking them out of the ground and separating them before the ground gets to cold.  

Thank you
Betty Blendu

Answer
Hi Betty,
Thanx for your question.  Cannas (which aren't lilies by the way.) must be lifted in zones colder than Zone 7.  They will not overwinter successfully in Boise, Idaho.  Most people lift the rhizomes with a pitchfork, shake off the excess soil (don't wash them or they may rot from the moisture) and store them in hay or wood chips for the winter in a cool, dry, dark basement.  The soil must be significantly warm in order for them to begin growing again.  I hope this helps.
Tom