When Can I Dig Up & Separate Canna Lilies?

Planting

• In tropical climate zones where temperatures do not get too extreme, Canna lilies can be planted at any time of the year and be expected to thrive indefinitely. Other areas exposed to acute temperature fluctuations require canna lilies to be planted when temperatures begin to exceed 55 degrees F. They should be planted in an area regularly exposed to sunlight and featuring soil that drains well. Bulbs should be planted about 5 inches deep with 1 to 2 feet between them. After planting, they should be watered regularly with close attention made not to over water.

Digging up Plants

• Unless canna lilies are in a tropical climate zone, they will need to be dug up when winter begins to come on. It is difficult to pinpoint this time with accuracy, as even subtle differences in temperature from one area to another may make a difference. They need to be pulled up between the late summer and early fall months. They should only be dug up when the leaves have turned yellow. It is important to wait until this point, as prior to it the plant has not absorbed the necessary amount of nutrients it will need for the following year. The bulbs should be pulled out undamaged, with no cuts from a shovel or any other tool.

Separating the Bulbs

• Once each bulb has been thoroughly rinsed with water, separate them from each other. This process is as simple as it sounds. Each bulb should be gently untangled from the others around it. If close inspection reveals weeds or other materials tangled up in the bulbs that are not direct parts of them, pull these away as well. For gardeners in a moderate climate that does not require digging them up on an annual basis, cannas still need to be dug up and separated (about every two years) to ensure a full and healthy output. Since separation always follows digging them up, it will most likely be occurring during the fall, but the best indication of the appropriate time for digging and separating is the yellowing of the leaves.

Storage

• Separated bulbs should be stored for the duration of the winter months. They should be stored in a cool, dry, moisture-free area. Paper or plastic bags are fine for this. When warmer temperatures come back, canna lily bulbs should be undamaged and ready for planting.