Australia

Canna Australia bulbs, also known as rhizomes, are tropical plants with striking foliage and vibrant flowers. To plant these bulbs successfully, start by choosing a sunny location with well-draining soil. Prepare the ground by loosening the soil and adding compost or well-rotted manure.

Plant the rhizomes horizontally, about 4-6 inches deep and 1-2 feet apart, with the eyes facing upwards. Water the soil thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season. To encourage healthy growth, fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Monitor for pests and diseases, and consider staking the plants if necessary for added support.

The best time to plant Canna Australia bulbs is in the spring, once the threat of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C). Planting in the spring allows the rhizomes ample time to establish themselves and produce blooms during the summer months.

In regions with mild winters (USDA hardiness zones 7-10), you can plant Canna Australia bulbs in the fall for a head start on growth the following spring. Remember to provide adequate protection from freezing temperatures, as these tropical plants are sensitive to cold.

Canna Australia bulbs are not winter-hardy in colder climates, so it's important to provide proper care during the winter months. Canna bulbs in general are winter hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7-10. Add an extra layer of mulch in the wintertime.

In zones below zone 6, you must dig up the Canna Australia rhizomes

• As the first frost approaches, cut back the foliage to about 6 inches above the ground.
• Carefully dig up the rhizomes, shake off any excess soil, and allow them to dry for a day or two.
• Store the rhizomes in a cool, dark place (40-50°F, or 4-10°C) in a ventilated container filled with slightly moist peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite.
• Check on the rhizomes periodically throughout the winter to ensure they remain firm and free of mold or rot.
• Replant the bulbs in the spring following the planting guidelines mentioned above.

There are several reasons why Canna Australia bulbs might not be producing flowers. Insufficient sunlight is a common cause, as these plants thrive in full sun and need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Poor soil fertility can also hinder blooming; ensure you're using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Overwatering or underwatering can cause stress to the plants, leading to reduced or absent flowering. Finally, it's possible that your bulbs need time to establish themselves before producing blooms, especially if they were planted late in the season.

If any of the reasons above do not apply to you, please don’t hesitate to contact us so we can help you further.

While no plant is entirely deer-proof, Canna Australia bulbs are considered deer-resistant due to their thick, fibrous leaves, which are less palatable to deer compared to other plants. However, deer browsing habits can vary by region and population, so it's important to monitor your plants for any signs of damage.

If deer are causing problems in your garden, consider implementing additional deterrents such as fencing, repellents, or planting other deer-resistant plants around your Canna Australia bulbs to help protect them.