Caring for Cannas

Site Requirements

• Before planting canna lilies, make sure you have a spot where they will do well. Because they are a tropical plant, they like sun and warmth, Cornell University reports. They will tolerate partial shade, but make sure the soil in these areas is free of weeds, grass and other debris. They also need a rich and fertile soil that drains well. They can tolerate moist and boggy conditions, but standing water can damage the root system.

Planting

• Do not plant your canna lilies in the soil until it warms in the spring and there is no threat of frost in your area, the University of Minnesota Extension advises. To plant the rhizomes, dig a hole 3 inches to 4 inches deep and set it firmly in the soil

Fertilizing

• The Alabama Cooperative Extension Service recommends fertilizing canna lilies regularly with a 5-10-5 fertilizer. Start in the early spring by applying 2 lbs. of fertilizer for every 100 square feet of garden space. Follow up with subsequent applications of the same fertilizer monthly throughout the growing season to ensure plenty of healthy blooms.

Deadheading

• Although not necessary, your canna lilies will thrive if you deadhead the expired blooms. Once a flower begins to die back, remove the piece of the stem from which the bloom grew, the Alabama extension advises. You should also remove the flowering shoots that appear just below the spent flowers. Continue this practice throughout the flowering season to encourage a long season of healthy bloom production.

Winter Care

• Because they are a topical plant, canna lilies only are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 8 to 10. In more northern areas, the rhizomes must be dug up each fall and safely stored in a cool, dry place. After digging up the rhizomes, cut the stems so they are no longer than 2 inches to 3 inches, the Minnesota extension advises. Allow them to dry before placing them in a cool, dry place for the winter. Ideally, they should be kept at temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit until they are ready to be planted in the spring.