water canna

Outdoors grow in a sheltered site in fertile soil in full sun, planting in early summer once frosts have passed. Water freely in dry weather and apply a high potassium fertiliser monthly. Lift the rhizomes in autumn when frost blackens the foliage. Store over winter in barely moist peat-free potting mix or leaf mould in frost-free conditions. In mild areas leave in the ground but cover with a dry mulch. Further canna cultivation advice

Remove dead flowers individually to promote continued flowering. Leave to die back in autumn

Propagate by seed at 21°C (70°F) in spring or autumn. Soak seed in warm water before sowing. Propagate by division in early spring

Glasshouse red spider mite, slugs and caterpillars may be troublesome

May be affected by canna viruses