Growing Canna lily (often just called cannas) is a great choice for bold, tropical-looking color—especially in warm climates like Tennessee. They’re easy, fast-growing, and thrive in heat.
Sun & Location
- Full sun is best (6–8+ hours daily)
- Tolerates light shade, but blooms less
- Great for borders, containers, or water garden edges
Planting Time (Tennessee)
- Plant outdoors: mid–late April through May (after last frost)
- Soil temp should be at least ~60°F
Soil Needs
- Rich, well-draining soil
- Loves organic matter—mix in compost before planting
- Can tolerate heavier soil better than most flowers
How to Plant Rhizomes
Cannas grow from underground rhizomes (not bulbs)
- Depth: 3–4 inches deep
- Spacing:
- Tall types: 18–24 inches
- Lay rhizome horizontally with “eyes” facing up
💡 Water well after planting
Watering
- Cannas LOVE water
- Keep soil consistently moist (not bone dry)
- Ideal for:
- Rain gardens
- Pond edges
- Low spots in the yard
Fertilizing
- Heavy feeders
- Add compost at planting
- Optional: balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks
Blooming
- Blooms: early summer through frost
- Colors: BELL Garden’s cannas are red
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Maintenance
- Remove old flower stalks after blooming
- Cut back foliage after frost kills it
- Divide rhizomes every 2–3 years for best growth
Winter Care (Important in Tennessee)
Cannas are winter-hardy in Nashville
- After first frost:
- Cut tops to 4–6 inches
- Mulch heavily (6-12 inches)
Propagation
- Divide rhizomes in spring
- Each piece should have at least one “eye”
Common Issues
- Canna leaf rollers – chew leaves (look for rolled leaves)
- Rust fungus – orange spots on leaves
- Japanese beetles – chew foliage
💡 Remove damaged leaves and keep good airflow
Best Uses
- Tropical-style beds
- Privacy screens (tall varieties get 5–6 ft)
- Container gardening
- Water features
Pro Tips (for BIG plants)
- Feed regularly + water heavily = massive growth
- Plant against a south-facing wall for extra heat
- Use mulch to keep roots cool and moist