August 2004

The cannas by the birdbath are now very very tall! Cannas are from a group of complex hybrids of garden origin and are rhizomatous, herbaceous perennials. Some are short and stocky, others tall and slender. Some have glaucous gray and leathery foliage, others dark chocolate red and thin foliage. Flowers range from small with narrow segments to large and ruffled. Colors range from pale yellow to orange or scarlet. They all perform well in full sun to light shade and are quite tolerant of dry conditions. Some can also be grown in standing water. These are indeed very durable plants.

This is across the back of the yard.Cannas tubers should be planted after all danger of frost is past. A portion of an old tuber containing several strong buds is best. The old tubers may be divided to single eyes, but the weak eyes are likely to make weak plants. If very strong clumps are wanted, a whole tuber may be used. The tubers should be planted 5 inches deep. Cannas should be planted 12-18 inches apart depending on the size of the varieties used and the effect desired. In dry weather a thorough soaking of the plants once a week will insure a stronger growth.