Dahlias come in many different patterns, textures, and colors—the types are innumerable. Stunning dahlias are actually fairly easy to grow. Grown from tubers not bulbs, you can start dahlias indoors in early spring, and then plant them outdoors once the danger of frost has passed. Or, you can wait until the soil has warmed in the spring, and then plant the tubers directly outdoors. They do require at least 6-8 hours of sun a day, so be mindful to plant your Dahlia tubers in a sunny location.
Plant tubers two to six inches deep, depending on variety. The plants need good air circulation to thrive, so place smaller varieties about 12 inches apart and large cultivars up to three feet apart. Once planted, water them regularly, and fertilize them promptly when new growth appears.
Dahlias require the one-time task of pinching off the tops, once the tubers have sprouted and formed branches. Wait until three sets of branches appear, and then top the stem just above the highest set of branches. This pruning tactic encourages the plant to grow more branches, thus creating more blooms. Within months, you’ll be treated to a garden full of stunning, colourful and oversized blooms. It is necessary to deadhead your faded blooms to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage flowering.
Dahlias are late season bloomers. They bloom from mid-summer through the first frost and are available in a vast array of colors, patterns, sizes, and flower forms. Plant size ranges from compact border varieties to species that have plate-sized blossoms atop 6-foot plants. Despite this diversity, most dahlias grow on long, erect stems that give the blooms room to show off. However, pet lovers beware, as this species of flower is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Our friendly knowledgeable staff can help you choose the Dahlia that is best for you. Here are a number of examples we have in this year.
