How to Dig Up Canna Bulbs for Winter Storage

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Cannas: Why We Dig Them Up
3. When Is the Best Time to Dig Up Canna Bulbs?
4. Essential Tools for Digging and Storage
5. Step-by-Step: How to Dig Up Canna Bulbs
6. Curing: The Secret to Long-Term Storage
7. Preparing the Rhizomes for Their Winter Nap
8. The Best Ways to Store Canna Rhizomes
9. Winter Care and Monitoring
10. Replanting in Spring: The Reward for Your Hard Work
11. Frequently Asked Questions About Digging Cannas
12. Growing Toward Next Season

Introduction

There is nothing quite like the tropical flair that canna lilies bring to a summer garden. Their bold, oversized foliage and vibrant flowers make every backyard feel like a private island retreat. As the season winds down and the air turns crisp, you might wonder how to save that tropical magic for next year. While these plants love the heat, most of us live in regions where the winter chill is a bit too much for them to handle in the ground.

At Longfield Gardens, we want to help you enjoy your favorite plants for as many seasons as possible. Learning how to dig up cannas—which are technically called rhizomes—is one of the most rewarding skills a gardener can master. It is a simple, budget-friendly way to ensure your garden returns even bigger and better the following spring.

This guide will walk you through the timing, the tools, and the easy steps required to safely lift and store your cannas. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned gardener, you will find that overwintering these beauties is a straightforward process that pays off in spectacular summer color. Saving your cannas allows you to preserve specific varieties you love while giving the plants a healthy head start for the next growing season. If you want a bold striped-foliage focal point next year, Canna Tall Tropicanna is a classic choice.

Understanding Cannas: Why We Dig Them Up

Before we pick up a shovel, it is helpful to understand what we are actually digging. Most gardeners refer to the underground part of a canna as a "bulb," but they are technically rhizomes. A rhizome is a fleshy, horizontal underground stem that stores energy for the plant. Because cannas are native to tropical and subtropical climates, these rhizomes are full of moisture and sensitive to freezing temperatures. For a broader look at planting and care, see All About Cannas.

In warmer regions, such as USDA zones 8 through 11, cannas can often stay in the ground year-round. However, for those of us in zone 7 and colder, the ground can freeze deep enough to damage or kill the fleshy rhizomes. If you are not sure which zone you are in, our Hardiness Zone Map can help.

The great news is that cannas are incredibly prolific. A single rhizome planted in May can grow into a large, heavy clump by October. When you dig them up, you aren't just saving one plant; you are often harvesting enough to share with friends or expand your garden beds next year. It is a productive and satisfying way to end the gardening season.

When Is the Best Time to Dig Up Canna Bulbs?

Timing is everything when it comes to overwintering tender plants. If you dig too early, the plant hasn't finished storing all the energy it needs for next year. If you wait too long, a deep freeze could damage the rhizomes.

The most common signal to start digging is the first light frost. You will notice the lush green or bronze leaves turn black or brown almost overnight after a cold snap. This is perfectly fine and actually serves as a helpful reminder. Once the foliage has been "hit" by frost, the plant stops growing and shifts its focus entirely to the rhizomes below.

Watching the Weather

You do not need to rush out the very second you see frost on the grass. Most gardeners wait until the foliage has wilted or turned dark. However, you should aim to have your cannas out of the ground before the soil itself freezes hard.

A light frost only affects the leaves, but a hard freeze—where temperatures stay well below freezing for several hours—can begin to freeze the moisture inside the rhizomes. If the rhizomes freeze, they will turn to mush and won't grow in the spring.

Regional Differences

• Zone 7: This is the "swing" zone. In a mild winter, cannas might survive with a thick layer of mulch. However, digging them up is the only way to be 100% sure they will return.
• Zone 6 and Colder: Digging is a must. The ground will freeze deep enough to reach the rhizomes, so they need to be moved to a frost-free location like a basement or garage.
• Zone 8 and Warmer: You can usually leave them in the ground. Simply cut back the dead foliage and perhaps add a light layer of mulch for protection.

If you want a dramatic tropical look for next season, browse our Tall Cannas.

Key Takeaway: The best time to dig up your cannas is shortly after the first frost has blackened the leaves, but before the ground freezes solid.

Essential Tools for Digging and Storage

You don't need fancy equipment to dig up canna bulbs. A few basic garden tools will make the job quick and easy.

1. A Garden Spade or Fork: A sturdy garden spade is usually best for cutting through the soil. Some gardeners prefer a garden fork because it is less likely to accidentally slice through a rhizome.
2. Pruning Shears: You will need these to cut back the tall stalks.
3. Garden Gloves: To protect your hands from blisters and damp soil.
4. A Garden Hose: Useful if you prefer to wash the soil off the rhizomes, though shaking them by hand also works.
5. Storage Containers: Cardboard boxes, plastic bins (with ventilation), or wooden crates are all excellent choices.
6. Packing Material: Peat moss, vermiculite, wood shavings, or even old newspapers will help keep the rhizomes at the right moisture level.

Step-by-Step: How to Dig Up Canna Bulbs

Once the first frost has arrived, you are ready to begin. Following a systematic process ensures you don't damage the rhizomes and that they stay healthy throughout the winter months.

Step 1: Cut Back the Foliage

The first thing you will notice is that cannas are big plants. Trying to dig them up while they are six feet tall is difficult and messy. Start by using your pruning shears to cut the stalks down. You want to leave about 2 to 4 inches of the stem sticking out of the ground. These "stubs" serve as handy handles for lifting the clumps and remind you exactly where the center of the plant is located.

Step 2: Loosen the Soil

Canna rhizomes spread horizontally, meaning the clump is likely much wider than it was when you planted it in the spring. To avoid cutting into the fleshy tubers, start digging about 6 to 12 inches away from the base of the stems.

Push your spade deep into the soil all the way around the plant. This "circles" the clump and severs any long roots while keeping the main rhizomes intact. Once you have circled the plant, gently pry upward with your spade or fork to loosen the entire mass.

Step 3: Lift the Clumps

Once the soil is loose, use the stem stubs to gently lift the clump out of the hole. If the clump is particularly large, you may need a partner to help or you might need to use your spade to carefully split the clump into two manageable pieces while it is still in the ground. If you are looking for a slightly smaller option, our Medium Cannas collection is a good fit.

Don't worry if a few small pieces break off during this process. Cannas are very resilient. As long as a piece has at least one "eye" (a growing point that looks like a small bump or bud), it has the potential to grow into a full plant next year.

Step 4: Remove Excess Soil

Once the clump is out of the ground, shake it gently to remove the bulk of the garden soil. You can also use your hands to brush away loose dirt. Some gardeners like to use a garden hose to spray the rhizomes clean. This makes it easier to inspect them for any signs of damage or pests. For more inspiration on using cannas in beds and containers, read Fresh Ideas for Growing Cannas.

If you do choose to wash them, it is very important to let them dry thoroughly afterward. Storing wet rhizomes can lead to rot and mold.

What to do next:

• Cut stems to 3 inches.
• Dig a wide circle around the plant.
• Lift the clump using the stems as handles.
• Shake off or wash away the heavy soil.

Curing: The Secret to Long-Term Storage

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is putting their cannas straight into a box the moment they come out of the ground. Like potatoes or onions, canna rhizomes benefit from a "curing" period.

Curing is simply the process of letting the rhizomes air-dry for a few days. This allows the outer skin to toughen up slightly and helps any cuts or "wounds" from the digging process to callous over. A calloused rhizome is much more resistant to rot during the winter.

To cure your cannas, place them in a dry, shaded area with good air circulation. A garage, a covered porch, or a basement floor works well. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can dry them out too much. Leave them there for 2 to 7 days. You will know they are ready when the remaining soil feels bone-dry and the outer skin of the rhizome feels slightly firmer.

Preparing the Rhizomes for Their Winter Nap

After curing, you can do a little "housekeeping" to make storage easier. At this stage, you might want to trim off any long, stringy roots that are hanging from the rhizomes. These roots are no longer needed and will only take up space in your storage bin.

You should also take a moment to inspect the clumps. If you see any soft, mushy spots or areas that look like they are rotting, cut those sections away with a clean knife. Healthy rhizomes should feel firm, similar to a fresh ginger root you would buy at the grocery store.

To Divide or Not to Divide?

Many gardeners ask if they should divide their canna clumps in the fall or wait until the spring. Both methods work. Dividing in the fall takes up less storage space and allows you to clean each piece thoroughly. Dividing in the spring is often easier because you can clearly see where the new growth "eyes" are starting to swell. If you have plenty of room, leaving them in larger clumps is perfectly fine. If you want a more detailed walkthrough, see How to Split Canna Bulbs.

The Best Ways to Store Canna Rhizomes

The goal of winter storage is to keep the rhizomes in a state of "suspended animation." You want them to stay cool enough that they don't start growing, but warm enough that they don't freeze. You also want to manage moisture so they don't rot from being too wet or shrivel up from being too dry.

Selecting the Right Container

We recommend using containers that allow for a small amount of airflow. Cardboard boxes are excellent because they "breathe." Plastic storage bins can also work, but you should leave the lids slightly ajar or drill a few small holes in the sides to prevent moisture from getting trapped inside.

Choosing a Storage Medium

You don't want to just throw the rhizomes into an empty box. Surrounding them with a packing medium helps regulate moisture and provides a bit of insulation. Common choices include:

• Damp Peat Moss: This is the most popular choice. It holds just enough moisture to keep the rhizomes from shriveling but isn't "wet."
• Wood Shavings or Sawdust: Often used for pet bedding, these are inexpensive and provide great airflow.
• Vermiculite or Perlite: These are sterile and excellent for moisture control.
• Newspaper: If you don't have other materials, wrapping individual rhizomes in several layers of dry newspaper is a surprisingly effective method.

The Ideal Location

Store your boxes in a cool, dark, and dry place. The ideal temperature range is between 40°F and 50°F. An unheated basement, a crawl space, or a cool closet in a mudroom are usually the best spots. Avoid unheated garages or sheds in very cold climates, as the temperature inside can drop below freezing during a cold snap.

Winter Care and Monitoring

Digging and packing the rhizomes is the bulk of the work, but a quick check once a month will ensure they make it through to spring in perfect condition. Think of this as a "wellness check" for your plants.

When you check your cannas, look for two things:

1. Signs of Rot: If you see any rhizomes that have turned soft, grey, or fuzzy, remove them immediately. Rot can spread from one rhizome to another, so catching it early is key.
2. Signs of Shriveling: If the rhizomes look very wrinkled or feel lightweight and "hollow," they are getting too dry. Use a spray bottle to lightly mist the storage medium with water. You don't want it to be wet—just slightly damp to the touch.

Most of the time, your cannas will sit quietly all winter without needing much attention at all. This period of dormancy is vital for the plant's health and ensures they have the energy to produce those massive leaves and bright flowers next July.

Replanting in Spring: The Reward for Your Hard Work

As the days get longer and the ground begins to thaw, you can start thinking about bringing your cannas back out. About 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost in your area, you can take the rhizomes out of storage.

If you didn't divide them in the fall, now is the perfect time. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut the clumps into pieces. Ensure each piece has at least one or two "eyes." Let the cut ends dry for a day before planting. For a step-by-step guide, see How to Plant Canna Lily Bulbs in Pots.

For an early start, many gardeners plant their rhizomes in pots indoors. This gives the plants a few weeks to establish roots and start sprouting leaves before they even touch the garden soil. Once the danger of frost has completely passed and the soil is warm (around 60°F), you can transplant them into their summer home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Digging Cannas

Even with a clear plan, you might have a few specific questions about your canna lily care. Here are the most common things gardeners ask us.

Can I leave my cannas in the ground if I mulch them heavily?

This depends entirely on your USDA zone. In zone 7, a thick 6- to 8-inch layer of straw or wood chips might protect them through a mild winter. However, if a record-breaking cold snap occurs, you could lose the plants. For gardeners in zone 6 or colder, mulch is rarely enough to prevent the ground from freezing deep enough to kill the rhizomes.

Do I need to wash the dirt off before storing them?

Washing is a matter of preference. Some gardeners find that leaving a little bit of soil on the rhizomes helps prevent them from drying out too quickly. Others prefer to wash them clean so they can easily spot pests or rot. Either way works, provided the rhizomes are allowed to dry (cure) before they are packed away.

What happens if I forget to dig them up until after a hard freeze?

If the ground has only frozen on the very surface, your rhizomes might still be fine. Dig one up and check it. If it is firm and white or tan inside, it is likely healthy. If it is soft, translucent, or mushy, it has been damaged by the cold. It is always worth trying to save them if they still feel firm!

Why did my stored canna rhizomes turn to mush over the winter?

Mushy rhizomes are almost always caused by too much moisture or lack of airflow. This can happen if the rhizomes weren't dried enough before storage, if the storage container was airtight, or if the packing medium was too wet. Next year, try curing them for a full week and ensuring your storage bin has plenty of ventilation.

Growing Toward Next Season

Digging up canna bulbs is a simple ritual that marks the end of a successful gardening year. It is a moment to reflect on the beauty of the past summer while preparing for the growth to come. By taking these few easy steps to protect your rhizomes from the winter cold, you are ensuring that your garden will remain a vibrant, tropical oasis for years to come. When you're ready to refresh next year's display, browse our Red, Orange, and Yellow Summer Blooms.

At Longfield Gardens, we believe that gardening is most enjoyable when it is straightforward and successful. Saving your own cannas is one of those high-reward tasks that makes you feel like a pro, even if you are just starting out. If you love dark foliage, browse Canna Tall Australia, and our 100% Quality Guarantee helps us stand behind every order.

Quick Summary for Success:

• Wait for the first frost to blacken the leaves before digging.
• Dig a wide circle to avoid damaging the fleshy rhizomes.
• Cure the rhizomes in a dry, shaded spot for several days.
• Store in a cool, frost-free area using a breathable container and peat moss or newspaper.
• Check monthly for any signs of rot or extreme dryness.

Digging up your cannas is a simple investment of time that pays off in a spectacular, low-cost display of summer color every single year.

We invite you to explore our other guides on garden care and plant selection to help you make the most of every square inch of your yard. Whether you are planting new varieties or preserving old favorites, we are here to support your gardening journey every step of the way. If you need help with delivery timing for your next order, see our Shipping Information.## FAQ

When should I dig up my canna bulbs?

You should dig up your canna rhizomes shortly after the first frost has turned the foliage black or brown. This timing ensures the plant has stored as much energy as possible for the next season. Make sure to complete the process before the ground freezes solid, as freezing temperatures can destroy the moist rhizomes.

Do I have to wash the soil off the rhizomes?

Washing is optional but can be helpful for inspecting the health of the rhizomes. If you choose to wash them, you must allow them to cure and dry thoroughly in a shaded, ventilated area for several days before packing them away. Many gardeners simply shake off the loose soil, which works just as well and reduces the risk of trapped moisture.

What is the best material for storing canna bulbs?

The best storage materials are those that regulate moisture while allowing some airflow, such as peat moss, vermiculite, wood shavings, or even dry newspaper. These materials prevent the rhizomes from shriveling up while also ensuring they don't sit in stagnant moisture. Place the rhizomes and the medium in a breathable container like a cardboard box or a ventilated plastic bin.

Where is the best place to store them during winter?

Cannas should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry location that stays between 40°F and 50°F. Common storage spots include unheated basements, crawl spaces, or cool closets. It is important to avoid areas that might drop below freezing, such as uninsulated garages in very cold climates, as the rhizomes cannot survive a hard freeze.