Question
Hey Tom,
  I'd like to start some canna lillies from seed. What do I need to know?  Thanks, Mike

Answer
Hi Mike,
Thanx for your question.  Canna seeds are relatively easy to start.  One thing that helps speed up germination is to nick the hard seed coat or file a small piece of it off.  I used a block sander and held the seed against it until I was able to rub off the dark coloring in a small place and begin to expose the white wall of the inner seed.  Don't go in too far or you'll damage the embryo.  If you nick the seed like this, germination will occur quickly in 2 weeks or less.  If you don't germination will be sporadic and take months.

Prepare a good sized pot (depending upon how many seeds you have) and fill with moist but not soggy potting soil.  Plant the seeds about an inch deep.  Keep the soil moist and warm (75 degrees F).  Once the seedlings sprout they need lots of light and this can be a problem in the winter time.  I've started them in the winter and lost some because they need a lot of light.  They are also heavy feeders too so after they are 3 or 4 inches tall begin feeding them once every 10 days with a 1/2 solution of 12-12-12 fetilizer or half strength fish emulsion.  They can easily be pricked out and planted in separate pots after they are 5 or 6 inches tall.  They do not tolerate frost so don't plant them outdoors until after the last frost and soil temps are warm.  They require direct sun for best results.  I hope this helps.
Tom