Happy Wilma

The ideal time to plant Canna Happy Wilma bulbs is in late spring, once the threat of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to at least 60°F (15°C). This ensures that the rhizomes have enough time to establish themselves before the growing season starts. In warmer climates, planting can begin earlier in the spring.

If you live in a region with a shorter growing season, consider starting the rhizomes indoors in pots about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost, then transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up.

Canna Happy Wilma plants can grow to an impressive height of 4-6 feet, making them an excellent choice for creating a striking focal point in your garden. These plants feature large, paddle-shaped leaves in a stunning bronze color, which provide an attractive contrast to the vibrant, orange-red flowers.

The flowers are borne on tall spikes, which bloom from mid-summer to the first frost. The blossoms attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making Canna Happy Wilma an excellent option for creating a wildlife-friendly garden.

Canna Happy Wilma bulbs are not winter hardy in colder climates (USDA zones 6 and below). To store the rhizomes for winter, wait until the first frost kills the foliage. Then, carefully dig up the rhizomes, leaving some soil around the roots. Trim the foliage back to 4-6 inches and gently clean off any excess soil.

Allow the rhizomes to air dry for a few days in a cool, dry location. Once dry, store them in a well-ventilated container filled with slightly damp peat moss or vermiculite. Keep the container in a cool, dark place with temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C) until it's time to replant in the spring.

Canna Happy Wilma plants are considered deer-resistant, making them an excellent choice for gardens where deer are a common issue. However, no plant is entirely deer-proof, and hungry deer might still nibble on them.

The most common pests affecting Canna plants are canna leaf rollers and spider mites. Canna leaf rollers are caterpillars that feed on the leaves, while spider mites cause stippling and yellowing of the foliage. Regular inspection, manual removal of pests, and the use of insecticidal soaps or oils can help control these pests.

Canna plants can also be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and the canna virus. To prevent these issues, ensure proper spacing for air circulation, remove affected plant parts promptly, and practice good garden hygiene.