Canna Lily Canna 'President'

Water

Canna Lilies, including the Canna 'President', should be watered to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the growing season, watering may be necessary approximately once a week, but this can vary depending on the climate and weather conditions. Typically, one inch of water per week, including rainfall, is sufficient. Water the plant directly at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. If the plant is in a container, ensure it has adequate drainage and water until it runs out of the bottom of the pot. Adjust watering frequency during hot, dry periods, as the plant may require additional water to prevent stress.

Light

Canna Lilies thrive best in full sun conditions, receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. The Canna 'President' should be placed in a spot where it is exposed to ample sunlight, which promotes vigorous growth and optimal flowering. However, in extremely hot climates, a little afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching.

Temperature

Canna Lilies, such as the Canna 'President', prefer warm temperatures and perform best when the temperature is between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit but may cease to grow. These plants cannot tolerate frost and must be protected or moved indoors if temperatures drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Pruning Canna Lilies is primarily done to remove spent flowers and improve the appearance of the plant. The Canna 'President' should be deadheaded by cutting the spent flower stalks down to the next side shoot. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms. After the first frost in fall or early winter, the foliage should be cut back to a few inches above the ground to prepare for winter dormancy. The best time for pruning is either after flowering or when preparing the plant for winter.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Canna Lily 'President' should be rich, well-draining, and have a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. A combination of loamy soil with compost and peat or coir for moisture retention works well.

Repotting

Canna Lily 'President' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the rhizomes outgrow their current container. It is best done in early spring before the growing season starts.

Humidity & Misting

Canna Lily 'President' thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, but it is quite adaptable and does not require specific humidity conditions for healthy growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, warm temps, and regular watering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, rich soil, consistent watering, and protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  7-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Canna 'President', commonly known as Canna Lily, begins its life as a rhizome, which is a type of underground stem that sends out roots and shoots. Upon planting, the rhizome sprouts and a shoot emerges from the soil, developing into a stalk with large, paddle-shaped leaves. As the plant grows, a flower spike forms, which then blooms into vibrant red flowers that are a key characteristic of the 'President' variety. After pollination, the flowers are followed by seed pods, although Canna Lilies often propagate vegetatively rather than by seed. If conditions allow, the plant enters a dormancy phase during colder months, with the foliage dying back, and the rhizome surviving underground. With the return of warmer temperatures, the Canna Lily 'President' resumes growth from the rhizome, starting anew the cycle of growth and bloom.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• Propogation: The Canna 'President', commonly known as the President Canna, is typically propagated through division since they grow from rhizomes. The best time to propagate the President Canna is in the spring, just before the growing season begins, when the rhizomes can be divided and planted without the stress of cold temperatures. To propagate by division, you should carefully dig up the clumps of rhizomes after the foliage has died back or just as growth begins to emerge. With a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes ensuring that each section has at least one eye or growing point. These sections can then be replanted at a depth of about 4 inches (10 cm) making sure the eyes are facing upwards, and spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm) apart to allow for sufficient growing space. Keep the soil moist and wait for the warmth and light of spring to encourage the rhizomes to sprout and establish themselves as new President Cannas.