Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Choose Canna Lilies for Your Garden
- Getting Started: Right Plant, Right Place
- How to Plant Canna Lily Rhizomes
- Summer Care for Maximum Blooms
- Growing Cannas in Containers
- How to Overwinter Canna Lilies
- Monitoring Your Stored Rhizomes
- Dividing Your Cannas for More Plants
- Creating Beautiful Combinations
- Simple Troubleshooting
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
There is something undeniably exciting about the first time a canna lilies unfurls its oversized, tropical leaves in your garden. These plants bring an immediate sense of lushness and vibrant color that few other flowers can match. Whether you are looking to create a backyard oasis or simply want a dramatic focal point for your front walkway, canna lilies are a fantastic, reliable choice.
At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy helping gardeners discover how simple it is to grow these spectacular plants. While they look like they belong in a professional botanical garden, they are actually quite easy to care for at home. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, planting, and maintaining these tropical favorites, and all about cannas gives you an even broader look at planning and planting them.
We will cover the best planting practices, summer care tips, and the essential steps for keeping your plants safe through the winter. By following a few straightforward steps, you can enjoy the bold beauty of cannas in your own yard year after year. Growing canna lilies is a rewarding way to add height and high-impact color to your summer landscape.
Why Choose Canna Lilies for Your Garden
Canna lilies are often the stars of the summer garden because they offer two types of beauty: striking flowers and dramatic foliage. While many people call them flower bulbs, canna lily structures are actually rhizomes. A rhizome is a thick, horizontal stem that grows underground and stores energy for the plant.
These plants are known for their "can-do" attitude. They thrive in the heat of summer when other flowers might begin to wilt. If you have a sunny spot that needs a boost of energy, cannas are the answer. They come in a wide range of heights, from dwarf varieties that stay around two or three feet tall to giants that can reach six feet or more, and medium cannas are a great option when you want a more compact look.
The foliage is just as important as the blooms. Depending on the variety, the leaves can be bright green, deep burgundy, or even striped with yellow and white. This means your garden looks beautiful even when the plants aren't in peak bloom. They are excellent for creating privacy screens, filling large empty spaces, or adding structure to the back of a flower bed.
Getting Started: Right Plant, Right Place
Success with canna lilies begins with choosing the right spot in your yard. Because they are tropical in nature, they have a few specific preferences that will help them perform their best.
Prioritize Sunlight
Cannas are sun-worshippers. To get the most flowers and the brightest foliage colors, you should place them in a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. If they are planted in too much shade, the stalks may become "leggy" as they reach for the light, and they will produce fewer blooms. In very hot climates, a little bit of afternoon shade can be helpful, but full sun is generally the goal.
Check Your Soil Drainage
Drainage refers to how quickly water moves through the soil. While cannas love moisture, they do not like to sit in soggy, stagnant water for long periods, as this can lead to the rhizomes rotting. If you have heavy clay soil, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter like compost or shredded leaves.
Consider the Wind
Because canna lilies grow tall and have large, paddle-shaped leaves, they can act like sails in a strong breeze. If you live in a particularly windy area, try to plant them near a fence, a wall, or a sturdy group of shrubs. This provides a bit of a windbreak and helps keep the tall flower stalks from leaning or breaking.
How to Plant Canna Lily Rhizomes
Planting is one of the most satisfying parts of gardening. It is the moment when all your planning starts to turn into reality. For cannas, timing is the most important factor to keep in mind, and planting canna bulbs in the ground is easiest once the soil has warmed.
Wait for Warm Soil
It can be tempting to plant your rhizomes as soon as the first hint of spring arrives. However, cannas are very sensitive to cold. We recommend waiting until the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F. If the soil is too cold and wet, the rhizome will simply sit dormant and may struggle to get started. A good rule of thumb is to plant them around the same time you would set out tomato plants.
Planting Depth and Spacing
Getting the depth right ensures the plant has a strong foundation. For more detailed guidance, see how deep canna bulbs should be planted.
- Depth: Dig a hole about 4 to 6 inches deep.
- Orientation: Place the rhizome in the hole horizontally. You might see small bumps or "eyes" on the rhizome; these are the growing points. If you can see them, point them upward, but don't worry too much if you can't tell which side is which. The plant will naturally find its way to the surface.
- Spacing: Give your cannas room to breathe and expand, and how far apart to plant canna bulbs depends on the size of the variety. For smaller varieties, space them about 1 to 2 feet apart. For the taller, more vigorous types, 2 to 3 feet of space is better.
After placing the rhizome in the hole, cover it with soil and firm it down gently with your hands to remove any large air pockets. Water the area well to help settle the soil around the rhizome.
Summer Care for Maximum Blooms
Once your cannas are tucked into the ground, they will grow quickly as the weather warms up. A little bit of consistent care during the summer will keep them looking their best until the first frost.
Water Correctly, Not Constantly
Cannas have a high metabolism and love water, especially during the peak of summer heat. Instead of giving them a light sprinkle every day, aim for a deep soaking once or twice a week. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, making the plant more resilient. If you are growing cannas in a very sandy soil, you may need to water more frequently, as sandy soil loses moisture fast.
Feeding Your Plants
Because they produce so much foliage and such large flowers in a single season, cannas are "heavy feeders." They appreciate a boost of nutrients. You can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer shortly after planting. Following the instructions on the product label is the best way to ensure you are giving them the right amount. Alternatively, topping the soil with a layer of compost mid-summer can provide a natural nutrient boost.
Deadheading for More Color
Deadheading is the process of removing faded flowers. When a flower cluster finishes blooming, you can snip off the spent stalk. This prevents the plant from putting energy into producing seeds and instead encourages it to produce more flower spikes. Use a clean pair of garden shears and cut the stalk back to where it meets the next leaf or flower bud.
Key Takeaway: For the most impressive display, keep the soil consistently moist and remove faded flowers regularly. This simple routine keeps the plant's energy focused on growth and new blooms.
Growing Cannas in Containers
If you have a small patio, a balcony, or simply want to add a tropical accent to your porch, canna lilies grow beautifully in containers. This is also a great way for gardeners in cooler climates to get a head start on the season, and high-impact container gardens can help you think bigger with bold plant combinations.
Choosing the Right Pot
Cannas have large root systems, so you will need a substantial container. A pot that holds at least 5 to 10 gallons of soil is usually sufficient for a single plant. Ensure the pot has plenty of drainage holes at the bottom so excess water can escape.
Potting Mix Matters
Avoid using garden soil in your containers, as it can be too heavy and may not drain well. Instead, use a high-quality potting mix designed for containers. These mixes are lightweight and allow air and water to reach the roots easily.
Container Maintenance
Plants in pots dry out much faster than those in the ground. During a heatwave, you might need to water your container-grown cannas every day. Because frequent watering can wash nutrients out of the soil, using a water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks can help keep the foliage lush and the flowers blooming. If you want a ready-made shopping starting point, container-friendly cannas are a practical place to browse.
How to Overwinter Canna Lilies
In USDA hardiness zones 8 and warmer, canna lilies can usually stay in the ground all year round. However, if you live in zone 7 or colder, the winter temperatures will be too low for the rhizomes to survive outdoors. The good news is that saving them is a very simple process, and Longfield Gardens' hardiness zone map can help you check your area.
Wait for the First Frost
Let nature tell you when it is time to dig. Wait until a light frost turns the foliage brown or black. This signal tells the plant to move its remaining energy down into the rhizome for winter storage. Once the leaves have withered, use a pair of shears to cut the stalks down to about 2 or 3 inches above the soil line.
Digging Up the Rhizomes
Carefully loosen the soil around the clump using a garden fork or a shovel. Start several inches away from the base of the stalks to avoid accidentally slicing into the rhizomes. Gently lift the entire clump out of the ground. Shake off the loose soil, but don't worry about getting them perfectly clean just yet.
Curing for Storage
Curing is the process of letting the rhizomes air-dry before putting them away. This helps toughen the outer skin and prevents rot. Place the dug clumps in a dry, frost-free area like a garage or a shed for about 7 to 10 days.
Packing Them Away
Once the rhizomes are dry to the touch, you can prepare them for their winter nap.
- Inspect: Discard any rhizomes that feel soft, mushy, or show signs of damage.
- Packing Material: Place the rhizomes in a cardboard box or a plastic bin with ventilation holes. Surround them with a slightly damp (but not wet) material like peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings. You can also wrap them individually in newspaper.
- The Right Spot: Store the box in a cool, dark place where temperatures stay between 40°F and 50°F. An unheated basement or a crawl space is often ideal. Avoid areas that might freeze, like an uninsulated outdoor shed.
Key Takeaway: Overwintering is a fourstep process: Frost, Cut, Dig, and Store. Taking these steps ensures you have healthy plants ready to go again next spring.
Monitoring Your Stored Rhizomes
It is a good idea to check on your stored cannas once a month during the winter. This takes only a few minutes but can save your collection.
If the rhizomes look shriveled or very dry, give the packing material a light misting of water. You want them to stay firm, not bone-dry. On the other hand, if you notice any spots of mold or soft tissue, remove the affected rhizome immediately so it doesn't spread to the others.
Gardening is a partnership with nature, and sometimes a few rhizomes may not make it through the winter. This is perfectly normal. Most gardeners find that the majority of their plants survive just fine and are eager to grow again once the spring sun returns.
Dividing Your Cannas for More Plants
One of the best things about canna lilies is that they multiply over time. A single rhizome planted in the spring will often grow into a large clump by autumn. Dividing these clumps is a great way to get more plants for free, and Longfield Gardens' guarantee is there to support your first-season success.
When to Divide
The best time to divide your cannas is in the spring, just before you replant them. After you bring them out of storage, you can easily see the different sections of the rhizome clump.
How to Divide
Look for sections of the rhizome that have at least one or two "eyes" or growing points. Using a clean, sharp knife, cut the rhizome into smaller pieces. It is a good idea to let the cut ends dry for a day or two before planting to help them "callus" over. This simple step helps protect the plant from soil-borne issues.
Dividing your plants every two or three years also keeps them healthy. When clumps become too crowded, they may produce smaller flowers or less vigorous growth. Giving them fresh space and a new start helps maintain their impressive size and color.
Creating Beautiful Combinations
Canna lilies are team players in the landscape. While they are beautiful on their own, they look even better when paired with other plants that share their love for sun and water.
- For a Tropical Look: Pair cannas with elephant ears, hibiscus, and caladiums. The mix of leaf shapes and sizes creates a lush, jungle-like atmosphere, and shade-loving caladiums can add a bright contrast nearby.
- For a Classic Garden: Plant tall cannas at the back of a border with dahlias and zinnias in front. The cannas provide a solid wall of color that makes the other flowers pop, and Assorted Cannas are a convenient way to plant a full mixed display.
- For Contrast: Use varieties with dark burgundy foliage next to plants with lime-green leaves, such as sweet potato vine. The color contrast is striking and holds up all season long. Canna Tall Australia is especially dramatic in this kind of planting.
At Longfield Gardens, we have seen how these combinations can transform a standard backyard into a spectacular retreat. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and heights to find the look that best fits your personal style.
Simple Troubleshooting
If your canna lilies aren't performing as expected, the solution is usually very simple. Most issues come down to one of three things: light, water, or temperature.
- No Blooms: If your plant has plenty of leaves but no flowers, it may need more sun. Ensure it isn't being shaded by nearby trees or structures. It could also mean the plant needs a bit more fertilizer to fuel its blooming stage.
- Yellow Leaves: While some varieties naturally have yellow-toned leaves, bright yellowing on a green-leafed variety can sometimes mean the soil is too wet. Check the drainage and adjust your watering schedule.
- Slow Growth: If it is early in the season and your cannas seem to be standing still, they are likely just waiting for the weather to heat up. Once the nights stay warm, you will see them take off.
Conclusion
Growing flower bulbs canna lily is one of the most rewarding projects a gardener can take on. These plants offer a massive return on a small investment of time. From the moment you tuck those unique rhizomes into the warm spring soil to the final frost of autumn, cannas provide a constant stream of color and texture.
Whether you are growing them in a large garden bed or a cozy container on your porch, the steps to success remain the same: give them plenty of sun, keep them hydrated, and store them safely for the winter. We are proud to provide high-quality rhizomes at Longfield Gardens to help you achieve the garden of your dreams, and shipping information can help you plan your order timing.
By following the simple strategies we've discussed, you can enjoy these tropical treasures for many years. Gardening should be an enjoyable journey, and canna lilies are the perfect companions for that adventure.
Next Steps for Success:
- Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
- Wait for the soil to warm to 60°F before planting.
- Water deeply once or twice a week during summer.
- Dig and store rhizomes after the first frost if you live in a cold climate.
FAQ
Can I leave my canna lilies in the ground during winter?
Whether you can leave them in the ground depends on your USDA hardiness zone. If you live in zone 8, 9, or 10, cannas can typically stay in the ground year-round, though adding a layer of mulch provides extra protection. In zone 7 and colder, the ground will freeze deep enough to damage the rhizomes, so they should be dug up and stored indoors. If you want to compare options for colder climates, tall cannas are one of the easiest places to start.
Why are the leaves on my canna lilies full of small holes?
Small holes in the leaves are often caused by canna leaf rollers or other common garden visitors. The best approach is to keep the plants healthy and vigorous so they can withstand minor damage. For specific pest management in your area, your local university extension service is an excellent resource for safe and effective advice.
How long does it take for canna lilies to bloom after planting?
Most canna lilies will begin to bloom about 10 to 12 weeks after they are planted in warm soil. Because they love heat, they grow much faster in mid-summer than they do in late spring. If you want earlier flowers, you can start your rhizomes in pots indoors about a month before your last frost date, and the canna planting guide walks through that process step by step.
Do I need to peel or soak the rhizomes before planting?
No, you do not need to peel or soak canna lily rhizomes before putting them in the ground. Simply place them in the soil at the recommended depth and water them well. The moisture in the soil is enough to "wake up" the rhizome and start the growth process.