Can I Plant Canna in Pots?

If you are looking for an exotic and tropical plant to brighten up your indoor or outdoor space, canna should be at the top of your list. With its bold, lush foliage and bright, show-stopping flowers, canna adds a touch of drama and color to any setting.

But canna tends to get quite large, so you may be wondering if it is possible to grow it in pots. The good news is that you can, and doing so has a range of benefits.

Why Plant Canna in Pots?

One of the main reasons to plant canna in pots is that it offers a great deal of versatility. You can move your plant around as needed to take advantage of different sunlight and temperature conditions, or simply to change up the look of your outdoor or indoor space. And if you live in a climate that doesn't support canna growth year-round, you can easily move your potted plant indoors during the colder months.

Another benefit of planting canna in pots is that it allows you to control the size of the plant. Canna can grow quite large, which may be problematic if you have limited space. Potted plants, on the other hand, can be pruned and kept at a manageable size.

How to Plant Canna in Pots

Planting canna in pots is fairly straightforward. You will need a pot that is large enough to accommodate the size of the plant, as well as well-draining soil and a sunny location.

Start by filling your pot with a mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand to improve drainage. Then, plant your canna rhizomes about 4-6 inches deep, taking care to space them out about 1-2 feet apart to allow for growth.

After planting, water thoroughly and place the pot in a sunny location. Canna loves full sun, so be sure to choose a location that gets at least six hours of sun per day.

Caring for Potted Canna

Once planted, potted canna requires relatively minimal care. Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not wet. During the growing season, you may also want to consider feeding your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month to encourage healthy growth and bloom.

If your canna begins to outgrow its pot, you can prune it back or divide the rhizomes and repot them in a larger container to allow for more room to grow.

The Bottom Line

Planting canna in pots is a great way to enjoy this beautiful and exotic plant in a range of settings, both indoors and out. With proper care and attention, your potted canna will flourish and provide a bold and colorful touch to any space.