How far down do you cut canna lilies in autumn? Currently they are about 5 feet tall. Or should they be lifted and stored under the house where it is dry and cool, and then replanted next spring?
Allow the foliage to die back on its own rather than cutting it. The bulbs rely on this foliage to produce enough energy for next season's blooms. Generally, the bulbs are dug up just after the foliage dies down. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/canna/storing-canna-bulbs.htm
Are ground dry canna leaves good for mulch and mixed in the soil?
As long as the leaves came from healthy plants, then I do not see why not. You can add to the soil or toss them into the compost pile.
From the time I plant Canna bulbs, how long till flowers appear? I will plant in a pot on sunny patio.
This article should answer your questions: https://extension.psu.edu/plants/master-gardener/counties/adams/news/2012/canna-lilies-care-winterization
I bought about 20 Red King Humbert canna bulbs. I planted them in April 2014. This is the first time I bought these bulbs because I love to see them in gardens around New Jersey. Now the problem is that some of the bulbs die out and I only have about 8 that sprouted out and growing. Why did some die? Thank you.
First, there's a good probability that some of the rhizomes you planted were not viable. You might try discussing this with the store from which you bought them, possibly they will refund or give you some more plants.
However, even if they don't, you can go on from where you are. First make sure you have the best culture for them. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/canna/canna-lily-care.htm
Then take up the rhizomes and store them over the winter, and plant again next year. here are some tips for over-wintering: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/canna/storing-canna-bulbs.htm
I am preparing to plant canna rhizomes in my yard. A friend gave me bags of the rhizomes but they need to be divided before I can plant them. She dug them from her yard in the fall because she had too many.
To divide the rhizomes, all you need to do is brush off the dirt and break them apart with your hands, or cut them with a knife. Then, this article should help you with planting: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/canna/canna-lily-care.htm
I am wanting to have the canna at peek blooming in Oct. Need to know when to plant.
This article should answer your questions: https://extension.psu.edu/plants/master-gardener/counties/adams/news/2012/canna-lilies-care-winterization
The leaves of the plant are very brown before they open up and full of holes as well.
Probably your plants have canna leafrollers, just about the only insect that troubles canna lilies. This article tells you more, and what to do about them. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston/weekly_q&a/f&b_11.htm