Growing Cannas at Home

When received: Planting as soon as possible is advised. If plants can’t be planted immediately, keep stored for up to two weeks in sealed bag at room temperature. Before planting, soak rhizomes for 24 hours in tepid water.

When to plant: Cannas can be planted any time of year in zones 9 and 10, but preferably soil temperature should be 55 to 65 degrees. In the cooler zones (3-8), plant in spring and summer (ground temperature should not be below 55 to 65 degrees).

Where to plant: Plant in a sunny location with plenty of moisture and fertility for optimum growth. The soil pH isn’t critical.

How to plant:
Soil preparation – Prepare soil by spading and adding compost or rotted manure.

Placing the plant – Plant rhizomes 1″ to 1 1/2″ deep and spaced 18″ to 24″ apart.

Water – Soak well after planting. Cannas prefer a good amount of moisture and thrive in a very humid environment.

Fertilizing: Fertilize established (2-3 weeks) plants monthly with 1-2-1 ratio (12-24-12 or 5-10-5), fertilizing at 1/2 the package recommendation and water well.

Disease: The only insect pest of consequence affecting cannas is the moth larvae commonly called a “leaf roller worm” (primarily a problem in the South). It can be controlled with applications of malathion every three weeks.

Winter protection: In zones 3-7, the rhizomes should be dug after the first light frost in the fall and stored at 45 to 50 degrees in moist conditions (damp sphagnum moss). In zones 8-10, cannas should be mulched.

Questions: Call American Daylily & Perennials, 800-770-2777.