Learn about Cannas

Cannas have become very popular in the last few years and although they are actually a rhizome many people still refer to them as a bulb. These picturesque plants will add a taste of the tropics to any garden this summer and as such will be a focal point in any planted area. Hard to beat for their luxuriant and colourful leaves alone, their flowers will also add dramatic highlights in a range of fiery shades. We have selected some of the best and newest canna varieties currently available, so look for these in our bulb range.

Cultivation

Canna bulbs (rhizomes) should be started in February/March in suitable indoor environment. Their odd shapes can make them difficult to pot so it’s often easier to place them in large seed trays, just covered with compost. The potting soil should be kept moist, and at a temperature of about 21°C to get them into growth. Once they’ve produced shoots, ensure that they are kept well watered. Once the shoots are 5cms tall remove them from the tray and pot singly, at the same time reduce the temperature to 15ºC. The benefit of starting the rhizomes in trays at this time is that they will flower well in the first year. Plant them out in the garden in a sunny position in late May. Cannas can be planted straight into the garden in April/May, but they are less likely to be suitable to divide in the first year. Cannas don’t need staking but should be watered as much as possible through the summer. Mulch them after planting to provide food and conserve moisture.

Flowering

They’re perfect for subtropical bedding schemes but can also be used to fill summer gaps in borders. The heights of canna bulbs (rhizomes) are wide ranging from 80cm to 2 metres or more. They are also very suitable to fit into gardens of every size and shape; they also make imposing plants for containers. Cannas will thrive better in full sunshine but will also cope well in semi shade. Undoubtedly they love warmth and thrive in summer conditions.

Over wintering

At the end of the season lift the canna rhizomes before hard frosts. Store indoors and keep them frost free over the winter months. In mild areas they may be left in the ground and over wintered with a deep covering of mulch. When leaving in the ground they often come into growth later, which may mean they do not meet their full potential.

Buy Cannas here