From May to autumn, the flower tube is enviably blooming and extremely colorful. But what happens when temperatures fall into the lower range of the thermometer? Is it hardy?
Are canna plants hardy?
Canna plants are generally not hardy and cannot tolerate sub-zero temperatures. To overwinter them, you should dig up the rhizomes in late autumn, free them from soil, place them in sand or sawdust and store them in a cool place.
The beautiful ones are not hardy
There are canna species such as Canna Lumbautum - a less visually appealing and less common species - that can tolerate sub-zero temperatures. But the species and varieties commonly sold are not hardy. For this reason, if you want to admire your canna again the following year, you must protect it from frost.
Where can Canna be overwintered?
Since this tropical plant reacts extremely sensitively to ice and snow, it should be provided with shelter in winter. Overwintering canna outdoors is pointless.
Canna could only be hibernated outside in mild winter locations and with appropriate protection. That's why it's advisable to find accommodation at home, in the basement or in the garage.
What is the best way to overwinter Canna?
The entire plant, including stems and leaves, can only be overwintered in a winter garden. If you don't have a winter garden, you should only overwinter the rhizomes.
Proceed as follows with the tubers:
- dig up in late autumn
- free from remaining soil
- place in sand, sawdust or earth and cover with the respective material
- overwinter in a cool place (temperatures between 5 and 10 °C)
- if applicable Water lightly every now and then
When is it time to leave the winter quarters?
Overwintering the rhizomes can end as early as January. Then the rhizomes can be pushed forward. Whether driven or not, Canna should not be planted outdoors until May. From March onwards it can be placed in the pot on the balcony or terrace during the day and on frost-free days.
Tips & Tricks
Don't worry if the Canna was taken to her quarters too late in the fall and had to experience a frosty night. The plant usually survives a short period of frost.
