Happy Carmen

Canna Happy Carmen bulbs, also known as rhizomes, are tropical plants that boast vibrant red flowers and lush green foliage. To plant and grow them, choose well-draining soil in a sunny location. Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 12-15 inches and mixing in compost or aged manure for added nutrients.

Plant the bulbs horizontally, 4-6 inches deep and 18-24 inches apart, ensuring the eyes are facing upward. Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer to promote lush growth and stunning blooms. In colder climates, dig up the bulbs before the first frost, store them in a cool, dry place, and replant them the following spring.

The ideal time to plant Canna Happy Carmen bulbs depends on your local climate. In USDA hardiness zones 7 and higher, you can plant the bulbs outdoors in the spring after the risk of frost has passed, typically from late March to early May.

For colder regions (zones 6 and below), start the bulbs indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant them outdoors once temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C) during the day and 40°F (4°C) at night. This will provide the bulbs with ample time to grow and bloom during the warmer months.

In colder climates (USDA hardiness zones 6 and below), Canna Happy Carmen bulbs require special care during the winter months. After the first frost, cut back the foliage to 4-6 inches above the ground. Carefully dig up the bulbs, brush off excess soil, and allow them to dry for a few days in a well-ventilated area.

Store the bulbs in a cool, dark, and dry location with temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C), such as a basement or garage. Place them in a container filled with slightly moist peat moss or vermiculite to prevent them from drying out completely. Check on the bulbs periodically, and plant them again in spring once the risk of frost has passed.

Happy Carmen cannas are winter hardy in USDA climates zone 7-10. If you live within these warmer hardiness zones, you can leave them in the ground.

While no plant is entirely deer-proof, Canna Happy Carmen bulbs are considered deer-resistant due to their bold, tropical foliage and strong scent. Deer typically prefer plants with softer, more delicate leaves and flowers.

However, if deer pressure is high in your area, it's best to take additional precautions, such as installing deer fencing or using deer repellents to protect your Canna Happy Carmen plants. Combining these measures with other deer-resistant plant varieties in your garden can create a less appealing environment for deer and reduce the likelihood of damage.

Soaking Happy Carmen Canna bulbs before planting can be beneficial but is not absolutely necessary. Pre-soaking the bulbs for 2 hours in room temperature water can help to speed up germination and promote more uniform growth. This process can be especially helpful in regions with shorter growing seasons or when planting later in the spring.

However, if you choose not to soak the bulbs, they will still grow and produce beautiful blooms; it may just take slightly longer for the plants to emerge. Ultimately, whether to pre-soak the bulbs comes down to personal preference and the specific growing conditions in your garden.