If you’re looking for an interesting flower to add to your garden, consider growing garden dahlias. Dahlias are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are also relatively easy to grow, making them a great choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
In this blog post, I will discuss everything you need to know about growing garden dahlias. I’ll cover planting tips, care instructions, and more! Let’s get started.
History of Garden Dahlias
Dahlias are native to Mexico and Central America, and they were first introduced to Europe in the early 1800s. Gardeners in England and France soon began growing them, and dahlias became very popular. By the mid-19th century, dahlias were being grown all over the world.
There are many different types of dahlia flowers, which can be divided into two main categories: garden dahlias and exhibition dahlias. Garden dahlias are smaller than exhibition dahlias and usually have less complicated flower shapes. Exhibition dahlias, on the other hand, are larger flowers that are often used in flower shows.
If you’re interested in growing garden dahlias, there are a few things you should know. In the next section, I will discuss everything from planting tips to care instructions. By the end of this blog post, you’ll be an expert on growing garden dahlias!
Planting Garden Dahlias
Garden dahlias can be planted either in the spring or fall. If you live in an area with warm winters, you can plant your dahlia bulbs in the fall and enjoy blooms all winter long. However, if you live in a colder climate, it’s best to wait until spring to plant your dahlia bulbs.
When planting garden dahlias, it’s important to choose a location that receives full sun. Dahlias need at least six hours of sunlight per day in order to thrive. They also prefer well-drained soil. If your garden has heavy clay soil, consider mixing in some sand or organic matter to improve drainage.
To plant garden dahlias, simply dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the bulb. Plant the bulb with the pointy side up and cover it with soil. Water thoroughly and continue to water regularly until shoots appear.
Types of Garden Dahlias
As I mentioned earlier, there are many different types of garden dahlias. The type you choose will depend on your personal preferences as well as your growing conditions. Here are some popular types of garden dahlia flowers:
- Cactus Dahlias: Cactus dahlias have petals that are rolled and spiky, giving them a unique appearance. They come in a variety of colors including yellow, orange, pink, and red.
- Semi-Cactus Dahlias: Semi-cactus dahlias are similar to cactus dahlias but with softer petals. They also come in a wide range of colors.
- Ball Dahlias: As you might have guessed from the name, ball dahlias have round flowers that resemble balls. They are available in many different colors including white, yellow, pink, purple, and red.
- Pompon Dahlias: Pompon dahlias have small, round flowers that are densely packed. They come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, pink, and purple.
- Waterlily Dahlias: Waterlily dahlias have large, flat flowers with petals that spread out like the petals of a waterlily. They are available in many different colors including white, yellow, pink, purple, and red.
Where to Grow Garden Dahlias
Garden dahlias can be grown in garden beds or containers. If you live in an area with warm winters, you can leave your dahlia bulbs in the ground and they will come back each year.
However, if you live in a colder climate, it’s best to dig up your dahlia bulbs and store them indoors over the winter. When spring arrives, you can replant them outdoors.
If you decide to grow garden dahlias in containers, make sure the pots have drainage holes. Dahlias need well-drained soil, so pots that don’t drain well can cause the bulbs to rot.
It’s also important to choose a pot that is large enough for the dahlia to grow. Most dahlias will need a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
Caring for Garden Dahlias
Once your garden dahlias are planted, they will need regular watering and fertilizing. Dahlias should be watered deeply and allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilize your dahlias every two weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package. Over-fertilizing can damage the plants.
As the plants grow, you will need to stake them to keep them from falling over. Staking also helps prevent damage from wind and heavy rain. Simply insert stakes into the ground around the plant and tie the plant to the stake with garden twine or wire.
In addition to regular watering and fertilizing, garden dahlias will also need to be deadheaded (removing spent flowers) throughout the growing season. Deadheading not only keeps the plants looking tidy but also encourages them to produce more flowers.
What to Grow with Garden Dahlias
Garden dahlias look great when planted alone or in groups. They also make good companion plants for other flowers and vegetables. Some good companions for garden dahlias include:
- Marigolds
- Tulips
- Roses
- Nasturtiums
- Peonies
- Sunflowers
- Salvias
- Yarrow
- Cosmos
Just make sure that the other plants require similar soil, water, fertilizer, and sun as the dahlias you are growing. Mix and match your garden dahlias with these flowers and other plants to create a colorful and beautiful garden in your yard!
Fall Decorating with Dahlias in Garden
Here are some fun ways to decorate for the fall with some of your dahlias.
- Make a fall wreath: Cut the stems of some dahlias and arrange them into a wreath shape. Add some other fall decorations like leaves, berries, or pumpkins.
- Use them as centerpieces: Place dahlias in vases or other containers and use them as centerpieces for your dining room table or coffee table.
- Decorate your front porch: Place pots of dahlias around your front porch or doorstep. You can also add other fall decorations like corn stalks, hay bales, or pumpkins.
Questions About Garden Dahlias
Here are some questions you may have about growing garden dahlias in your outdoor space.
Will dahlias come back year after year?
Dahlias will come back year after year in areas with warm winters. However, in colder climates, the bulbs need to be dug up and stored indoors over the winter.
What month do you plant dahlias?
You can plant dahlias in spring after all danger of frost has passed.
Can you leave dahlias in the ground over winter?
Dahlias can be left in the ground over winter in areas with warm winters. However, in colder climates, the bulbs need to be dug up and stored indoors.
How long do dahlias last in the garden?
Dahlias will bloom from summer until fall. Dahlias planted in garden beds can last for many years with proper care.
What is the best best way way to store dahlia bulbs??
Dahlia bulbs can be stored in a cool, dark place such as a basement or garage. Be sure to keep them dry and away from any frost-frosty areas.
Garden Dahlias
Garden dahlias are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do require some care and attention. By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful garden dahlias all season long!
As you can see, growing garden dahlias is easy and they make a great addition to any garden. With so many different colors and types available, there’s sure to be a dahlia that’s perfect for you. So why not give them a try? You may just fall in love with these beautiful flowers.
Do you have any tips for growing garden dahlias? Share them in the comments below!
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Thanks for reading! 🙂
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