- Canna Durban is a beautiful and popular flowering plant that can be grown outdoors in the UK. To keep your Canna Pretoria healthy and thriving, here are some care instructions:
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Planting: Choose a well-draining location with full sun or partial shade. The soil should be rich and fertile. If the soil is heavy clay, consider adding organic matter or compost to improve drainage.
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Watering: Canna requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Water deeply, allowing the water to reach the root zone, and avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent disease.
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Fertilization: Cannas are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring or use a liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper application rates.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and provide some insulation during cooler temperatures.
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Pruning: Remove spent flowers and damaged or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and promote new growth. Cut back the entire plant to the ground in late autumn or early winter, before the first frost. This will help prepare the plant for dormancy and protect it from frost damage.
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Winter care: In the UK, Cannas are not reliably winter hardy and may require additional protection. Before the first frost, cut back the foliage to the ground and carefully dig up the rhizomes (underground stems). Allow them to dry for a few days and then store them in a cool, dry place for the winter. You can wrap the rhizomes in newspaper or store them in a container filled with dry peat moss or vermiculite. Replant the rhizomes in spring after the danger of frost has passed.
