Dividing & Storing Canna 'The President' in Iowa Zone 5a

Canna 'The President' produces smaller rhizomes than common varieties. In Iowa (Zone 5a), lift after frost with this tailored method:

Lift & Cure

1. Cut stalks to 6 inches.
2. Dig clumps, stand upright in dry, cool (45–50°F) basement for 4 weeks.
3. Stalks dry further; cut off additional 4 inches.
4. Store rhizomes in plastic trays or mesh bags with air circulation at 45–50°F.

Dividing Small Rhizomes

• Don't over-divide. Each piece needs a visible bud (eye) and some root tissue.
• Pot up tiny divisions in spring for a year of growing on before garden planting.
• Accept some loss—small pieces have lower survival.

Growing Better in Zone 5a

• Black mulch to warm soil early.
• High-phosphorus fertilizer (5-10-10) for blooms, not nitrogen.
• Consistent moisture—cannas love heat + water.

Patience with 'The President'—it's worth the extra care for those huge red flowers.