Cannas – Dividing Bulbs

Q: I divided a canna clump into six pieces a year ago. Now they are about three times the size that I need or want. When is the right time of year to dig and divide the bulbs to share with friends?

A: You can divide cannas anytime between October 1 and December 1. Gently pull the roots from the ground after loosening the soil with a pitchfork. Clip off the old stem and any rotten roots. Dust the cuts with powdered sulfur to prevent disease. Put them in paper bags, wrap with red ribbon and store in a cool place until gift-giving season arrives.