CANNA
(Can'na)
These
tender perennials are natives of South America
and the West Indies. They produce broad leaf foliage
and clusters of beautiful, Gladiolus like flowers
during the summer. They may be grown in borders
and beds and if accustomed, in 1 to 10 inches
of water.
Potting:
If your plants are to grow in water, they must
first be adapted to it. This is accomplished by
keeping them moist and gradually increasing the
water to an inch above the plant's crown. They
may eventually be covered with 1 to 10 inches
of water. If they are going to be brought in during
the winter, plant them in 5 gallon containers
before submerging them. In the fall, the plants
may be brought in and treated as tropical houseplants
or the rhizomes may be hosed free of soil, dried
and stored in a frost proof room as done with
terrestrial Canna.
Propagation:
They may be divided in the fall if they are going
to be stored without soil, or in early spring
when they are replanted again. Seeds may also
be sown, but the seed coat must first be nicked
to aid in germination.
Hardiness:
Canna
are surprisingly hardy, tolerating temperatures
to around zero degrees F, if mulched around
the crown. Although durable these plants will
look far better if deadheaded and snails and slugs
are controlled.
Height:
3-6ft.
Width: 2-3'
Light: Full
sun
Soil: Any
good garden soil.
Moisture:
moist can be up to 10 inches underwater if acclimated.
Propagation:
By seed, or division
Spacing: 6-12
inches apart
