How To Prune Canna Lilies That Are Too Big?

To prune canna lilies, wait until the blooms have begun to fade and use pruning shears to snip off the stem below the bloom. Cut off the top portion of the stem just above a leaf node to encourage the plant to develop more blossoms. Pruning canna lilies year-round is key to keeping them alive and healthy, especially if you want them vibrant and flowering in the spring. Different varieties have different cuts, and the best time to prune is in early spring before new growth starts to appear.

When the growing season ends and frost is expected, it’s time to cut the plant back. Wait until the foliage dries out and turns brown, then snip the stems and cut back the plant back. Proper pruning keeps the canna looking its best throughout the growing season and helps prepare them for dormancy and winter storage when necessary. Trim the stalks back to their base using pruning shears or a sharp knife, encouraging the plant to direct its energy towards the root. Cut back old stems to about 4 to 6 inches from the ground, encouraging the plant to put energy into new growth.

You can prune canna lilies throughout the year when they need a little spruce up, and should also prune them back hard as winter is setting in. Key pruning for canna lilies ‘Picasso’ involves deadheading spent blooms to stimulate new flower growth, and cutting back to the next side shoot or leaf for optimal growth.