Scott,

Cannas require moist soils with healthy doses of nutrients.
I am not sure what blah soils consist of in your area but growing cannas adjacent
to a hot brick walls multiplies the water requirements. Consider amending the
soil with some good organic compost and watering often to keep the soil moist.

Kent

I appreciate the reply. Yes, I've been doing everything wrong with these...will likely dig 'em up this winter, recondition the soil and put some drip or extra irrigation along the base of the stems...