Perfect timing, Jim. I just got back home from Puerto Vallarta and luckily checked into this site.

The main reason I lined the pots with paper was because often when taking a plant from the pot, the soil breaks apart and falls from the roots. Personally, I think this sets the plant back (a little ). Also, if the pot is not sterile, I think the newspaper provides some protection here. As well, I find it takes a little less soil to "fill" the pot with the newspaper in. The newspaper does break apart in the garden when I plant it. I place the newspaper and the plant into a hole, backfill with garden soil, water it in, and then easily tear the top away. Simple procedure. Thanks for asking.

Any thoughts that you have on the concept is worthy of consideration. Please share your thoughts.

Can I propagate cannas the same way as dalias?

I treat my cannas quite similarly to my dahlias as far as planting and cuttings are concerned. Both need eyes to form new plants.