How To Cut Canna Lilies That Have Gone To Seed?

Pruning canna lilies is an essential skill for any dedicated gardener, as it promotes healthier growth and manages its size. The best time to prune canna lilies is in early spring before new growth starts to appear. To prune, remove any seed pods and dig up the rhizomes before the first hard frost, taking care not to harm them. Remove any remaining dirt and let the rhizomes air-dry for a few days in a warm, dry place.

To cut back canna lilies for winter, follow these 11 easy steps:

1. Use sharp, clean secateurs to trim the stalks back to their base using pruning shears or a sharp knife. This practice encourages the plant to direct its energy towards root. If you don’t deadhead the plant, the seedpods gradually dry out and turn brown. If you don’t want seeds, cut the spent flowers at the base of the stem below the ovaries. Cut off just the fading flower, leaving the buds in place. Pretty soon they should open up into new flowers. If you do happen to remove the buds, lift the rhizomes once the top growth begins to wither in autumn. Cut down the foliage and stems to about 15cm (6in) and remove surplus soil, dry, and repot the plant.

In summary, pruning canna lilies is a crucial skill for maintaining healthy growth and managing its size. Proper pruning can rejuvenate plants, promote healthier growth, and ensure year-round health. By following these steps, you can grow great cannas in spring with lots of flowers and new stems.