The Canna Lily (often just called Canna) is a tropical showstopper. Despite the name “Indian Shot,” these beauties don’t actually come from India—they’re native to the West Indies and the Caribbean. Because of those tropical roots, they aren’t exactly fans of the cold. In fact, very few varieties can handle a true winter chill.
Digging Up the Rhizomes
For most of us, leaving Cannas in the ground over winter is a recipe for heartbreak, as they usually won’t survive a hard freeze. Your best bet is to dig up the rhizomes (those thick, bulb-like roots) and store them somewhere frost-free, like a basement, attic, garage, or sunroom.
Getting Ready for Winter
Timing is everything when it comes to prepping your Cannas. You’ll want to start the process in the fall once the leaves begin to turn brown, but definitely *before* the first hard frost hits. For most gardeners, early to mid-October is the sweet spot. Here’s your game plan:
- Carefully dig up the rhizomes.
- Use a soft brush to clean off any excess dirt.
- Let them air dry for a few days.
- Place them in a box filled with sand or peat moss.
- Keep them dry! Do not water them or use any fertilizer during their winter nap.
Overwintering Outdoors
If you live in a region with very mild winters and feel like taking a little risk, you can try leaving them in the ground. After cutting the stalks back, cover the area with a thick layer of mulch—at least 8 inches deep—to insulate the soil. Just remember: even outdoors, you should skip the water and fertilizer during the winter months, and make sure the spot has excellent drainage so the roots don’t rot.
