Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Choosing the Right Canna Lily for Your Garden
- Finding the Perfect Spot: Sun and Soil
- When to Plant Canna Lily Bulbs
- How to Plant Canna Lily Bulbs in the Ground: Step-by-Step
- Watering and Fertilizing for Maximum Growth
- Summer Maintenance: Deadheading and Pruning
- Dealing with Pests and Common Issues
- Overwintering: What to Do When the Season Ends
- Designing with Canna Lilies
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Few plants offer the immediate, tropical impact of the canna lily. With their oversized, paddle-shaped leaves and vibrant, orchid-like flowers, they transform any backyard into a lush summer retreat. At Longfield Gardens, we love how these easy-to-grow perennials provide both height and high-octane color with very little effort. Whether you want to hide a fence, add drama to a flower bed, or attract hummingbirds to your patio, cannas are a reliable and rewarding choice.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about planting canna lily rhizomes directly into your garden. We will cover site selection, the best time to get them in the ground, and how to care for them so they bloom beautifully all season long. Our goal is to make your gardening experience as successful and enjoyable as possible.
Planting cannas is a straightforward process that rewards you with spectacular foliage and flowers from midsummer through the first frost. If you want to learn more about our plant selection and growing resources, start with Learn or review our shipping information before you order.
Choosing the Right Canna Lily for Your Garden
Before you pick up a shovel, it is helpful to decide which canna varieties will best suit your landscape. Cannas come in a wide range of sizes and color combinations, and at Longfield Gardens, we categorize them by both their flowers and their stunning foliage.
Standard cannas can reach heights of 4 to 6 feet or more, making them excellent choices for the back of a flower border or as a natural living screen. Dwarf varieties usually stay between 2 and 3 feet tall, which is perfect for smaller gardens or the front of a bed. When selecting your plants, consider the leaf color as much as the bloom. Some varieties, like the 'Tropicanna' series, feature multi-colored striped leaves in shades of gold, green, and burgundy. Others, like 'Black Knight', offer deep chocolate-colored foliage that makes bright red flowers pop. For more detail on size choices, see our guide to how tall canna varieties grow.
If you prefer a classic look, varieties with solid green leaves and bright red, yellow, or orange flowers provide a clean, traditional tropical feel. Because we work with expert growers in regions like Holland, we ensure that the rhizomes you receive are healthy and ready to grow vigorously once the weather warms up. For a dependable mixed planting, the Canna Assorted Collection is an easy place to start.
Key Takeaway: Match the variety to your space. Use tall cannas for privacy or backdrops and dwarf varieties for borders and small spaces.
Finding the Perfect Spot: Sun and Soil
Cannas are tropical plants at heart, which means they crave heat and sunlight. To get the best results, you must choose a location that meets their basic needs for light and drainage.
Sunlight Requirements
For the most vibrant flowers and the strongest stems, plant your cannas in full sun. This means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day. While they can grow in partial shade, they will likely produce fewer flowers, and the stems may become "leggy" as they stretch toward the light. If you are growing varieties with dark or variegated foliage, full sun helps those colors remain intense and saturated.
Soil and Drainage
Cannas are not particularly fussy about soil type, but they do best in soil that is rich in organic matter. "Drainage" is a term gardeners use to describe how quickly water moves through the soil. While cannas enjoy consistent moisture, they do not like to sit in "wet feet," which is soil that remains soggy or swampy for long periods.
If your soil is heavy clay, you can improve the drainage by mixing in some compost or well-rotted manure before planting. This loosens the soil structure and provides the nutrients these "heavy feeders" need to grow several feet in a single season. If you want to learn more about our company and the way we test plants, visit About Us.
When to Plant Canna Lily Bulbs
Timing is the most important factor when planting cannas. Because they are tender perennials, they are very sensitive to cold temperatures. In most parts of the United States, you should wait until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up significantly.
A good rule of thumb is to plant your cannas at the same time you would plant tomatoes or peppers. The soil temperature should be at least 60°F. If you plant them while the soil is still cold and damp, the rhizomes will sit dormant and may struggle to start. Waiting for the heat ensures they "wake up" quickly and start growing as soon as they hit the dirt. If you are checking timing and delivery windows, our shipping information page is a helpful reference.
For gardeners in colder northern zones, you can get a head start by planting your rhizomes in pots indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Once the weather stays warm, you can transplant them into the ground. If you are unsure of your local frost dates, your local county extension office is a great resource for regional timing. You can also use the Hardiness Zone Map to help plan your season.
What to do next:
- Check your local weather forecast for the last frost date.
- Use a soil thermometer to ensure the ground is at least 60°F.
- Prepare your planting area by clearing away weeds and debris.
How to Plant Canna Lily Bulbs in the Ground: Step-by-Step
Once the weather is warm and your spot is picked out, it is time to plant. Canna "bulbs" are actually rhizomes, which are thick, fleshy underground stems that store energy for the plant.
Step 1: Prepare the Soil
Loosen the soil in your planting area to a depth of about 8 to 12 inches. This makes it easier for the roots to expand quickly. If your soil is lean, this is the perfect time to mix in a few inches of compost.
Step 2: Dig the Hole
Dig a hole that is about 4 inches deep. If you are planting a large number of cannas, using a garden auger attached to a cordless drill can save a lot of time and effort. It creates perfectly sized holes in seconds and helps aerate the soil as you go.
Step 3: Position the Rhizome
Place the canna rhizome in the hole horizontally. Look for small bumps or "eyes" on the surface; these are the growth points where the new stems will emerge. Ideally, these eyes should point upward, but don't worry if you can't tell which side is which. Cannas are resilient, and the sprouts will find their way to the surface regardless of how the rhizome is oriented.
Step 4: Spacing
Cannas grow quite wide as they mature, so give them plenty of elbow room. Space standard varieties about 18 to 24 inches apart. If you are planting dwarf varieties, 12 to 18 inches is usually sufficient. Proper spacing ensures good air circulation, which helps keep the foliage healthy and prevents the plants from competing too much for water and nutrients.
Step 5: Cover and Firm
Cover the rhizome with 2 to 3 inches of soil. Gently press down with your hands to remove any large air pockets, but do not pack the soil too tightly. You want the soil to be firm enough to support the plant but loose enough for sprouts to push through easily.
Step 6: Initial Watering
Water the area thoroughly right after planting to settle the soil. After this initial watering, hold off on watering again until you see the first green sprouts emerging from the ground. Canna rhizomes are slow to start and don't need much moisture until they have active roots and leaves.
Watering and Fertilizing for Maximum Growth
Once your cannas have sprouted and are actively growing, their needs change. Because they produce so much foliage and large flowers in a short amount of time, they require plenty of fuel.
Consistent Moisture
Cannas love water. During the heat of the summer, they should be watered at least once a week, and potentially every other day if the weather is exceptionally hot and dry. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist. A layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or clean straw, can help retain moisture in the soil and keep the roots cool.
Feeding Your Plants
These plants are "heavy feeders," meaning they consume a lot of nutrients. To keep them looking their best, we recommend applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time. You can follow this up with a water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season. If your leaves look a bit pale, it is often a sign that the plant needs a boost of nitrogen.
Summer Maintenance: Deadheading and Pruning
Cannas are relatively low-maintenance, but a little bit of grooming goes a long way in keeping your garden looking tidy and encouraging more blooms.
Deadheading
"Deadheading" is the process of removing spent flowers. Canna stems produce multiple flower clusters in succession. When a flower fades, snip it off just above the next budding cluster. Be careful not to cut the entire stem until all the flower buds on that stalk have finished blooming. By removing the old flowers, you prevent the plant from putting energy into producing seeds, which encourages it to produce more blossoms instead.
Pruning Foliage
If the lower leaves of your canna lilies start to look tattered or turn yellow, you can simply prune them off near the base of the stem. This won't hurt the plant and will keep the display looking fresh. If a leaf is damaged by wind, you can trim the edges with sharp scissors to tidy it up.
Key Takeaway: Regular deadheading keeps the plant focused on blooming rather than seed production, extending your color well into the fall.
Dealing with Pests and Common Issues
While cannas are generally very hardy, there are a few things to keep an eye on. In some regions, canna leaf rollers (caterpillars) can be an issue. These pests roll themselves up in the leaves and eat the tissue from the inside. If you notice leaves that are pinned shut or have rows of holes, you may need to treat them. We suggest consulting your local garden center or extension service for the best organic or traditional treatments available in your area.
If your cannas aren't blooming, the most common reasons are:
- Not enough sun: They need at least 6 hours of direct light.
- Lack of water: Cannas will stall if the soil stays too dry.
- Lack of nutrients: They need regular feeding to produce flowers.
- Crowding: If the clumps become too large over several years, they may need to be divided to regain their vigor.
Overwintering: What to Do When the Season Ends
At the end of the summer, your plan for your canna lilies will depend on where you live. Cannas are perennial in USDA zones 7 through 10. In these warmer regions, you can leave them in the ground all year. Simply cut the foliage back to about 4 inches after the first frost and apply a thick layer of mulch to protect the roots from occasional cold snaps.
If you live in Zone 6 or colder, the rhizomes will not survive a frozen winter in the ground. You will need to "lift" them if you want to save them for next year. For extra peace of mind, Longfield Gardens backs its plants with a 100% Quality Guarantee.
How to Lift and Store Canna Rhizomes
- Wait for frost: Let the first light frost turn the foliage brown. This tells the plant to go dormant and move its energy into the rhizome.
- Cut back: Cut the stems down to about 2 to 4 inches above the soil line.
- Dig carefully: Use a garden fork or shovel to lift the clumps out of the ground. Dig about a foot away from the stems to avoid slicing the rhizomes.
- Clean and dry: Gently shake off the excess soil and let the rhizomes dry in a shaded, frost-free area (like a garage) for a few days.
- Store: Place the rhizomes in a cardboard box or paper bag filled with slightly damp peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings.
- Environment: Keep the box in a cool, dark place that stays between 40°F and 50°F. Check them once or twice during the winter to make sure they aren't rotting or completely shriveling up.
Designing with Canna Lilies
Because cannas are so bold, they are incredibly versatile in garden design. Use them to create a "tropical corner" alongside other big-leaved plants like elephant ears or bananas. Their vertical growth also makes them excellent companions for lower-growing annuals like zinnias, lantana, or sweet potato vines.
In a mixed border, try planting a group of three or five cannas together. This creates a much more powerful visual impact than a single plant standing alone. If you have a damp spot in your yard where other plants struggle, cannas might be the answer, as they are one of the few ornamental plants that can tolerate "wet feet" once established. For more planting ideas and seasonal basics, browse the Learn section.
We maintain a trial garden at Longfield Gardens to ensure our varieties perform well in real-world conditions. This allows us to provide practical advice based on how these plants actually behave in the soil. Whether you choose the fiery colors of 'Tropicanna' or the elegant pinks of City of Portland, you are adding a piece of the tropics to your own home.
Conclusion
Planting canna lily bulbs in the ground is one of the easiest ways to bring big, bold energy to your summer garden. By choosing a sunny spot, waiting for the soil to warm up, and providing plenty of water and food, you can enjoy a spectacular display that lasts for months. These resilient plants are perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
- Wait for the heat: Plant when soil is 60°F and frost is gone.
- Give them sun: At least 6–8 hours of direct light for best blooms.
- Keep them hydrated: Cannas love moist soil and regular feeding.
- Store for winter: Lift the rhizomes in cold zones to enjoy them again next year.
At Longfield Gardens, we are here to help you grow with confidence. If you're ready to add some tropical flair to your yard, explore our Canna Assorted Collection and start planning your most beautiful garden yet.
FAQ
How deep should I plant canna lily bulbs in the ground?
Canna rhizomes should be planted about 2 to 3 inches deep. You want to cover them with enough soil to keep them hydrated and stable, but not so deep that the sprouts struggle to reach the surface.
Do I need to soak canna rhizomes before planting?
Soaking is not strictly necessary, but some gardeners find that a 2-hour soak in lukewarm water helps "wake up" the rhizome and speed up the sprouting process. If the rhizomes feel very firm and hydrated when they arrive, you can skip this step and simply water them well after planting.
Why are my canna lilies taking so long to sprout?
Cannas are heat-loving plants and can be quite slow to start, sometimes taking three weeks or more to show green growth. If the soil is still cool, they will wait until it warms up. Be patient and avoid overwatering during this dormant phase to prevent the rhizome from rotting.
Can I plant canna lilies in clay soil?
Yes, cannas can grow in clay soil, but they will perform better if you amend the area with compost or organic matter. This improves the soil structure, allowing the roots to spread more easily and ensuring that water can drain away so the rhizomes don't sit in stagnant moisture.