How to Leave Cannas Out All Winter

Cannas produce large, variegated leaves and brightly colored flowers throughout the summer months. The large flowers add a tropical look to the garden while the colorful foliage adds color even when the plant isn't blooming. Canna plants can be left in the ground year-round in USDA gardening zones 8 through 12, where the ground rarely freezes in winter. Proper protection of the plants helps prevent cold damage from drying winds and winter temperature fluctuations.

Things You'll Need

• Shears
• Mulch

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Cut back the dead foliage after the first frost kills it back in late fall or early winter. Use sharp shears and cut the foliage down to within 6 inches of the ground.

   • 2

     Cover the canna bed with a 4-inch layer of mulch made from straw or dead leaves. The mulch prevents soil heave if the ground begins to freeze and thaw while also insulating the soil against extreme cold.

   • 3

     Remove the mulch gradually over a two-week period as the weather begins to warm in spring. Temporarily replace the mulch if a late-season frost is predicted.