How to Start Canna Bulbs Indoors

Canna lilies are large showy plants that grow tall with big dark-green leaves and huge, vibrantly colored flowers. The flowers are yellow, red, dark red and white. Canna lilies are good choices for areas where you need a tall plant. Cannas grow rapidly and do not mind a little neglect. Starting Canna lily bulbs indoors gives you a jump on the summer growing season. Once transplanted into the garden, they will grow quickly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Canna bulbs
• Potting soil with sand or vermiculite
• Regular outdoor pots

1. Purchase or obtain canna bulbs that are firm to the touch. If there are any soft spots on the bulb, it will not be a viable bulb and chances are it will not grow.

2. Start the bulbs indoors approximately four to six weeks before the last expected frost in your area. The last frost usually occurs in mid to late April. Mid-January to mid-February is a good time frame for starting bulbs indoors.

3. Position the bulb in the center of the pot horizontally (sideways) approximately one inch below the surface of the soil. Cover the bulb with soil. It is best to plant one bulb per pot.

4. Set the pots in a warm location and water thoroughly with warm water. The warm water promotes germination and keeps the soil warm. Move to a sunny window as soon as you see new growth breaking the soil. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

5. Move the pots outdoors on warm afternoons to acclimate the bulbs and promote a sturdy plant. Be sure to bring them back in at night. Once all danger of frost is over, transplant the bulbs into the garden or leave them in the pots as container plants.

References

• Boston Gardens
• Home Basics

Resources

• Dutch Bulbs