Organically Grown Canna
Canna indica, also known as Indian flower reed, is a striking perennial plant native to the tropical regions of the Americas. It is especially loved for its large and colorful flowers, which range in shades like red, yellow, orange, and pink. The plant has large green leaves that can grow about a meter high, giving gardens and landscapes an exotic appearance. Canna indica thrives in moist soil and sunny locations, making it an excellent choice for water-rich areas.
In addition to its aesthetic value, the plant also has some medicinal and culinary uses.
How, Where, and When Do I Plant Canna Bulbs?
Starting Indoors
A canna is not hardy, so the bulbs can be started indoors from March. This gives a growth head start and ensures that the cannas will bloom earlier. The plants can be moved outside after the ice saints (May 15), or even earlier if the weather is mild. However, be mindful of frost; if there’s a risk of frost, they should be brought inside at night.
Planting Outdoors in the Garden
If the bulbs are only planted after the frost has passed, May 15 is the ideal time. From then on, the bulbs can safely be planted without the risk of frost, and they will bloom about 60 to 90 days later. Plant the bulb with the new shoots facing upwards, about 2 to 3 centimeters below the ground, and keep a half-meter distance between the bulbs. The planting season continues through June for blooms that same year.
Location
A canna prefers a sunny spot in nutrient-rich, well-drained, and preferably lime-rich sandy soil.
Caring for Canna indica
Keep the soil of the Canna always moist. Too dry soil can cause problems with growth and blooming. The plant blooms for about 6 to 8 weeks. Let the leaves completely die off so the plant can gather as much energy as possible for the next year. Cut the withered plant back to the ground in the fall. Bulbs left in the ground should be protected from light frost in winter with leaves. For severe frost, they should be stored in a frost-free, dry place. The advantage of digging them up is that the bulb can be divided each year.
Feed the plant several times a year for optimal results. The canna is a fast-growing plant that requires a lot of nutrients.
Dividing Canna Bulbs
In the fall, the bulbs grow well. Do not dig up the bulbs too early for propagation; just before the first frost is the best time. The cannas should only be divided in the spring, when they are replanted. This prevents damage to the bulb, where mold may develop during winter storage. Store the bulbs in a layer of peat or sand over the winter.
We recommend dividing the Canna every 2 to 3 years.
Edible
The bulbs of the Canna indica are high in starch and taste similar to sweet potatoes. The leaves give a lemony flavor when grilled or steamed.
Origin of the Canna indica
The Canna indica originates from Central and South America. The name 'flower reed' is derived from the Celtic word 'cana', meaning a type of reed.
Buying Organic Cannas
From January to June, organic canna bulbs are available at Bloemoloog.nl, with delivery starting mid-March! From March to June, cannas are also available at one of our markets.