How to Properly Store Canna Lily Seeds for Successful Germination

Canna lilies, also known as Indian shot, are beautiful tropical and subtropical plants that produce colorful blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. Their large, lush leaves also make a striking statement in flower beds and gardens.

While cannas are often propagated from rhizomes or tubers, you can also grow these stunning plants from seeds. However canna seeds have a tough outer coating and require special treatment for successful germination. Proper harvesting storage, and pre-sowing preparation are key to getting your canna seeds to sprout.

When and How to Harvest Canna Seeds

Canna seed pods turn brown or black when ripe and will split open when fully mature, releasing shiny black seeds. The best time to collect seeds is soon after the pods naturally open. You’ll get highest viability by harvesting fresh seeds immediately after the pods release them.

Watch seed pods closely to catch the optimal harvest time. Viable seeds will be very dark brown or black. Lighter or white seeds are likely immature and won’t sprout well.

Use scissors or pruners to snip off dried seed heads. Place cut pods in a paper bag or envelope and keep in a cool, dry spot while finishing harvest. This prevents losing seeds.

Once all pods are gathered, break them open over a bowl to collect the seeds Remove any pod debris, leaving only black canna seeds

Storing Canna Seeds for Later Planting

Fresh canna seeds remain viable for only 2-3 months when stored properly in a cool, dry place. For best results, start germination as soon as possible after gathering seeds.

You can extend viability by refrigerating seeds. Place dry seeds in an airtight container and store in the fridge. At 35-40°F, canna seeds may stay viable for up to 1 year.

For longer storage, consider freezing seeds. First, package seeds in an airtight, moisture-proof container like a ziplock bag or glass jar. Remove air and seal. Frozen below 0°F, canna seeds may remain viable for 2-3 years.

Always label containers with seed type and year before freezing to keep inventory.

Pretreating Canna Seeds Before Planting

Canna seeds must have their tough outer coatings weakened for the embryo to absorb water and germinate. Use these methods:

Scarification

Lightly sanding seeds is an easy scarification technique. Gently rub seeds on medium grit sandpaper to lightly abrade and scratch the coatings. Don’t damage the fragile embryo. Just rough up the shell enough to allow moisture.

After sanding, rinse seeds while gently rubbing between fingers. This further permeates the abraded coats.

Hot Water Soak

Soaking seeds in hot water softens the hard outer shell.

• Bring water to boil then remove from heat.

• Place seeds in a bowl and pour hot water over them.

• Soak 12-24 hours.

• Drain, rinse.

The warm soak softens seed coats so they can absorb moisture and germinate when planted.

Cold Stratification

Some canna seeds have dormancy requiring cold exposure before sprouting. This mimics winter conditions seeds would experience naturally before spring growth.

To cold stratify seeds:

• Soak seeds overnight at room temperature to hydrate.

• Drain, seal seeds in a ziplock bag with moistened paper towel. Remove excess air.

• Refrigerate 4-8 weeks. Remoisten towel as needed.

After cold stratification, rinse seeds before planting. The moist chilling helps break dormancy.

How to Plant Pretreated Canna Seeds

Once seeds are scarified, soaked, and/or stratified, they’re ready for planting:

• Plant seeds shallowly, 1⁄4-1⁄2 inch deep in pots or trays. Lightly cover with seed starting mix or vermiculite.

• Keep planting medium consistently moist but not saturated. Frequently mist with a spray bottle.

• Provide bottom heat of 70-75°F to encourage sprouting. Use heating mats or trays.

• Cover trays/pots with plastic domes to maintain humidity. Remove condensation daily.

• Germination should occur in 1-4 weeks. Remove covers after seedlings emerge.

• Transplant young canna plants into garden after all frost danger, once 6 inches tall. Space 24-36 inches apart.

With proper harvesting, storage, pretreatment, and planting, you can successfully grow beautiful new cannas from seeds. Paying attention to their unique requirements results in higher germination rates and gorgeous, thriving cannas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many new canna growers have questions about best practices for storing and germinating seeds. Here are some common questions and answers:

How long do harvested canna seeds stay viable?

Properly stored, fresh seeds stay viable 2-3 months. Refrigerating extends viability to 1 year. Frozen below 0°F, seeds may last 2-3 years.

Do you have to start canna seeds indoors?

Yes, starting seeds indoors or in a greenhouse provides the warm soil and high humidity they need to sprout. Once sprouted and established, young plants can be transplanted outdoors after frost danger passes.

What type of seed starting mix should be used?

Cannas do best in a lightweight, fast-draining mix like a general purpose blend of peat moss, perlite and vermiculite. Avoid heavy, dense soils.

How deep should you plant canna seeds?

Plant seeds very shallow, just 1⁄4-1⁄2 inch deep. They require light to germinate. Planting too deep prevents seedlings from emerging.

How much water do canna seedlings need?

Keep starting medium consistently moist but not saturated. Use a spray bottle to frequently mist soil and maintain moisture. Allow pots to partially dry between waterings.

When can you transplant canna seedlings outside?

Transplant seedlings to the garden after the last spring frost once they have 4-6 mature leaves and are at least 6 inches tall. Harden off for 7-10 days first.

How far apart should you space canna plants?

In the garden, allow 24-36 inches between plants to accommodate their large foliage and spreading rhizomes. Cannas need adequate space to reach full size.

Storing canna lily seeds properly and pretreating them prior to planting are important steps to ensure successful germination. Following best practices for harvesting, storage, scarification, and planting will lead to a bountiful crop of vibrant cannas grown from seed.