Introduction
Bringing a touch of the tropics to your backyard is easy with canna lilies. Famous for their bold foliage and brilliant flowers, these plants offer a high-impact look with minimal effort. To get the best results, wait until the soil is at least 60°F, choose a sunny spot with rich, moist soil, and plant canna rhizomes about 4 inches deep with the eyes facing up.
At Longfield Gardens, we recommend Cannas for adding height and drama to the summer landscape. These vigorous growers stay healthy all season, making them a perfect choice for both new and experienced gardeners. For a broader look at planning your garden, see our All About Cannas guide.
Quick Summary:
- Wait for Warmth: Only plant outdoors once the soil reaches 60°F.
- Ideal Location: Pick a spot with rich, moist soil and at least 6 to 8 hours of sun.
- Planting Depth: Place rhizomes horizontally about 4 inches deep.
- Consistency: Water regularly and fertilize every 4–6 weeks for the best blooms.
- Winter Care: In cold climates, lift and store rhizomes indoors before the ground freezes.
Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Cannas
The first step in learning the best way to plant canna bulbs is finding where they will be happiest. Cannas thrive on heat and perform best when their location matches their tropical origins.
Sunlight Requirements
Cannas need plenty of light to produce their famous flowers and vibrant foliage. Aim for a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of sun each day. While they can grow in partial shade, flower production is higher in full sun. Leaf colors, especially in variegated varieties like ‘Stuttgart’ or 'Striped Beauty', look much more intense with adequate light.
Considering Soil and Drainage
Cannas are thirsty plants that can handle "wet feet" better than most other summer bulbs. However, they still need soil that allows for some air movement to keep roots healthy.
The ideal soil is rich in organic matter. If your soil is sandy or heavy clay, improve it by adding compost or well-rotted manure. This helps the soil hold moisture while providing the nutrients needed to grow tall.
Wind Protection
Because many cannas grow quite tall, their large leaves can act like sails. If you live in a windy area, plant them near a fence, wall, or sturdy shrubs. This provides a natural windbreak that keeps the banana-like leaves from tearing.
What to do next:
- Observe your yard to see which areas get the most afternoon sun.
- Check the soil after a rain to ensure water doesn't sit in a deep puddle for more than a day.
- Think about the height of the variety you chose and pick a spot where it won't block smaller plants.
Understanding Timing and Soil Temperature
One of the most important rules for canna success is waiting for the right temperature. As tropical plants, they do not like the cold; planting too early into cold, damp soil can cause rhizomes to sit dormant.
The 60-Degree Rule
The best way to plant canna bulbs is to wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. This usually happens a few weeks after the last spring frost. If you are unsure, use a soil thermometer a few inches into the ground in the morning. Once the ground is consistently warm, your cannas will sprout faster and grow more vigorously.
Watching the Frost Dates
Always check local frost dates, as even a light frost can damage tender new growth. In northern climates with short growing seasons, consider starting rhizomes in pots indoors. For shipping timelines by zone, see our Shipping Information page.
The Best Way to Plant Canna Bulbs Step-by-Step
Canna "bulbs" are actually thick, fleshy underground stems called rhizomes. Planting them correctly ensures their stored energy is used efficiently to create lush stems and leaves.
Step 1: Prepare the planting area Loosen the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches to help new roots spread. Mix in a few inches of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients for rapid summer growth.
Step 2: Dig the hole Dig a hole about 4 inches deep. Space dwarf varieties like 'Orange Punch' 1 foot apart, and larger varieties like 'Black Knight' 1.5 to 2 feet apart to allow for their spread.
Step 3: Position the rhizome Place the rhizome in the hole horizontally. Look for small bumps called "eyes"—these are the growth points. Position the rhizome with the eyes facing upward.
Step 4: Cover and firm the soil Fill the hole so the rhizome is covered by 2 to 3 inches of soil. Gently press down with your hands to remove large air pockets and ensure good soil contact.
Step 5: Water thoroughly after planting Give the area a heavy soak immediately after planting to settle the soil. You can then wait to water again until you see the first green shoots emerge.
Key Takeaway: Plant canna rhizomes 4 inches deep and 1 to 2 feet apart. Position them horizontally with the growth "eyes" pointing up toward the sky for the fastest start.
Starting Cannas Indoors for an Early Start
If you live in a cooler region, Starting Canna Lily Bulbs Indoors is a great way to "cheat" the season, giving plants a one-to-two-month head start.
Choosing the Right Pot
Select a container at least 8 to 10 inches in diameter for a single rhizome. Ensure the pot has drainage holes so the soil doesn't stay soggy.
Using the Right Potting Mix
Use a high-quality, well-draining potting soil rather than garden soil. Adding perlite can further improve airflow around the roots and prevent rot.
Providing Light and Heat
Place pots in a warm spot, such as near a sunny window or on a heat mat, to trigger sprouting. Once leaves appear, provide as much bright light as possible to keep stems sturdy.
Moving Them Outdoors
Once the danger of frost has passed, move your cannas to the garden. "Harden them off" by placing pots outside in a sheltered spot for a few hours daily, gradually increasing exposure to sun and wind over a week to prevent sunburn.
Caring for Your Cannas Throughout the Summer
Established cannas are easy to care for but are "heavy feeders" and "heavy drinkers." Consistent moisture and nutrition are key to their lush appearance.
Watering for Success
During the summer heat, cannas should never dry out completely. If the soil is dry an inch below the surface, it is time to water. A layer of mulch can help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilizing for Brilliant Blooms
Because they grow so fast, cannas use a lot of energy. Applying a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks will keep the foliage green and the flowers blooming.
Deadheading and Pruning
To keep plants looking fresh, remove spent flowers (deadheading). When a flower cluster fades, snip it off. Once an entire flower stalk is finished, cut it back to the next set of leaves to encourage new flower spikes.
Monitoring for Pests
Keep an eye out for "canna leaf rollers"—small caterpillars that roll themselves in leaves. If you see holes in a line or rolled leaves, simply unroll them and remove the caterpillar by hand.
Exploring Canna Varieties for Your Style
We offer a wide range of varieties at Longfield Gardens, including our Canna Assorted Collection, to suit any design.
| Canna Type | Best Use | Key Varieties |
|---|---|---|
| Tall Cannas | Back of flower beds, focal points, or summer privacy screens. | ‘Stuttgart’, ‘Black Knight’, ‘Inferno’ |
| Medium Cannas | Middle of a border or the center of large containers. | ‘Miss Oklahoma’, ‘Striped Beauty’, ‘Crimson Beauty’ |
| Short Cannas | Small gardens, containers, or front-of-border layering. | ‘Orange Punch’, ‘Salmon Pink’, ‘Madame Butterfly’ |
What to do next:
- Group varieties with dark foliage near plants with silver or lime-green leaves for maximum contrast.
- Mix different heights to create a "layered" look in your garden beds.
- Try planting one of the dwarf varieties in a colorful ceramic pot for your patio.
Overwintering Your Canna Rhizomes
In warmer regions (USDA zones 8 and above), cannas can often stay in the ground. In cooler climates, you must protect them from freezing.
Lifting the Rhizomes
After the first frost turns the foliage brown, cut stems down to about 4 inches. Carefully use a garden fork to lift the clumps, taking care not to nick the fleshy rhizomes.
Cleaning and Drying
Shake off excess soil and let the rhizomes dry in a shaded, frost-free area for a few days. This "curing" process toughens the skin to prevent rot during storage.
Storage Conditions
Store rhizomes in a cool, dark, and dry place where temperatures stay between 40°F and 50°F. Use a cardboard box or paper bag filled with slightly damp peat moss or vermiculite to keep them from drying out.
Key Takeaway: In cold climates, cut back stems after the first frost, lift the rhizomes, and cure them for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry place (40°F to 50°F) for the winter.
Growing Cannas in Containers
If you have limited space, cannas are excellent pot plants. They provide instant height and thrive in confined spaces if they have enough water.
Choosing the Container
Select a heavy pot to prevent tipping as the plants grow tall. A 12-inch pot is the minimum for one rhizome, but a 14-to-16-inch pot is better for moisture retention.
Planting in Pots
Use high-quality potting mix and plant the rhizome 4 inches deep. Because pots dry out faster than the ground, diligent daily watering may be necessary in the summer.
Mixing with Other Plants
Cannas make a great "thriller" in container arrangements. Surround them with "filler" plants like lantana and "spiller" plants like sweet potato vine. For more tips, see How to Grow Summer Bulbs in Containers.
Designing with Cannas in the Landscape
Cannas are versatile tools that contrast beautifully with the fine foliage of grasses or delicate perennials. For more inspiration, see Fresh Ideas for Growing Cannas.
- Privacy Screens: A row of tall cannas creates a lush, green wall for the summer.
- Water Features: Cannas love moisture and can even be grown in submerged pots at the edges of ponds.
- Pollinator Appeal: The bright, tubular flowers are favorites for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Conclusion
The best way to plant canna bulbs is to prioritize warmth and moisture. By waiting for the right soil temperature and providing consistent care, you can transform your garden into a tropical retreat. At Longfield Gardens, we provide high-quality rhizomes backed by a 100% Quality Guarantee, so you can plant with confidence.
- Wait for soil to reach 60°F before planting outdoors.
- Choose a sunny spot with rich, moist soil.
- Plant rhizomes 4 inches deep with the eyes facing up.
- Water consistently and feed regularly for the most spectacular results.
FAQ
How deep should I plant my canna rhizomes?
The ideal depth is about 4 inches. You want to ensure the rhizome is covered by at least 2 to 3 inches of soil. This protects it from drying out and gives the tall stems a sturdy base to grow from.
Can I grow canna lilies in the shade?
Cannas prefer full sun, which means 6 to 8 hours of direct light. While they can grow in partial shade, they may not bloom as well, and their stems might become "leggy" as they stretch toward the light. For the best foliage color and the most flowers, find the sunniest spot in your garden.
How often should I water my cannas?
Cannas love moisture and should be watered whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. In the heat of summer, this may mean watering every two to three days. If you are growing them in containers, you might need to water them daily to keep the soil consistently damp.
Do I need to dig up my cannas every year?
This depends on your climate zone. In USDA zones 8 through 11, cannas can usually stay in the ground year-round with a layer of mulch for protection. In zones 6 and colder, you will need to lift the rhizomes after the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place indoors for the winter.
