Photo: Yercaud-elango, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Bulb or tuber
Canna lily: when and how to prune
Canna × generalis
Canna lily is best pruned in October–November.
| Pruning months | October–November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–October |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Canna lily: when to prune it?
After the first frost, in October or November, when the leaves blacken, cut the stems back before lifting the rhizomes.
Canna lily: how to prune it?
- Cut all stems back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
- Carefully dig up the rhizome and shake off the soil.
- In summer, cut off faded flower spikes just above the next leaf.
- Remove damaged or torn leaves at the base.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: October–November.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Do not lift the rhizomes too late: a few nights of light frost on the leaves do no harm, but frozen rhizomes rot.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Canna lily · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.