Canna all wrapped up and ready for bed

I finally stopped dithering and made an attempt to give my Canna some protection over the winter. I convinced myself that reading the weather forecast and muttering weakly “perhaps we won’t get any frost” is not good enough. I am a gardener - gardeners should be decisive - I will take action!

I have had the Canna in a pot for years, dragging it into the greenhouse each October. To be honest it didn’t do well for me. I don’t think I give it enough tender loving care, despite repotting frequently. Now I’ve planted it in the garden it’s taken on a new lease of life. The ‘Purpurea’ part of the name refers to the lovely dark foliage.

Canna indica 'Purpurea' in late August

I’m not digging it up again especially as it’s doing so well. However with the colder weather it’s looking a bit sad.

Looking bedraggled in November

Raking through the junk in the garage I came up with an idea. I produced a four sided framework using parts of an old pet rabbit run. I’ve cut down the Canna and placed the frame over the top.

The frame placed over the cut down Canna

I filled it with about 10 inches (25cm) of straw.

Filled with straw

I then covered the top with bubble fabric to keep out excess rain (and cats who might pop inside for a nap). It looks rather cosy.

Topped off with bubble fabric

If by chance we get a really prolonged spell of cold weather I’ll wrap some fleece around it. I’ll have to remember to keep an eye out for new growth next year - don’t want the slugs to get in there first and ruin the foliage. I’m trying not to think about that -  it’s next year’s problem!