How many canna lilies can you plant in a pot?

If you are planning to grow canna lilies in pots, you might be wondering how many lilies can fit in a single pot. This is a common question that may vary depending on the size of the pot and the variety of canna lilies that you have chosen to grow.

Determining the size of the pot

The size of the pot is a significant factor in determining the number of canna lilies that you can grow. Large pots can accommodate more lilies than smaller ones. The bigger the pot, the more the space and root area that you provide for the lilies to grow. Generally, a pot that is at least 12-16 inches in diameter and at least 12 inches deep is suitable for planting canna lilies. Such a pot can hold up to two or three lilies, depending on their size and the size of the pot.

Type of canna lilies

The number of canna lilies that you can plant in a pot also depends on the variety of the lilies. Some lilies are bigger than others and, therefore, require more space to grow. For instance, the tall canna lilies might need a bigger pot because they tend to grow upwards and can be top-heavy, requiring additional support. On the other hand, the smaller varieties of canna lilies, such as dwarf cannas or the 'Tropicanna' series, are compact and do not require much space. Therefore, you can plant two or three small canna lilies in a 12-inch diameter pot, whereas only one or two tall canna lilies will fit in a similar sized pot.

Filling the pot

Before planting the canna lilies, it's essential to fill the pot properly. You'll need a good quality, nutrient-rich potting soil that can hold enough moisture and provide good drainage. Fill the pot with the soil till it is about two-thirds full. Gently pat down the soil to eliminate any air pockets, and then add the canna lilies, ensuring that the roots are in contact with the soil. Add more soil up to an inch below the rim of the pot, leaving enough space for water. Once you have planted the lilies, water them thoroughly.

Caring for the canna lilies

Just like any other plant, canna lilies require proper care and maintenance to thrive. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and ensure that the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Feed the lilies with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. During the hot summer months, you can move the pots to a location that receives some partial shade during the hottest part of the day. This will help prevent the leaves from getting sunburnt.

Conclusion

The number of canna lilies that can fit in a pot depends on their size and the size of the pot. A 12 to 16-inch diameter pot can hold up to two or three canna lilies, depending on their size. The crucial factor is to ensure that the pot is adequately filled with nutrient-rich potting soil, with good drainage to support the growth of the lilies. With proper care and maintenance, canna lilies will provide a display of lush, tropical foliage and bright, showy blooms that will enhance the beauty of your garden or balcony.