Where To Plant Dahlia?
Dahlias prefer a sheltered location with maximum sunlight. A south or west-facing border is ideal. Dahlias are not particular about soil conditions. Grow in any well-drained soil, fertile and moist, for optimal results. Add some organic matter to the soil, such as well-rotted manure. Add sand to the planting hole if growing on heavy clay soil. When growing dahlias in containers, use high-quality, peat-free, all-purpose compost.
Table of Contents
Where Do Dahlias Grow?
Dahlias are primarily cultivated in North and South America (especially Central America). In addition to being cultivated in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia, they have been exported to every continent. Dahlias can only survive the winter in zones 8–11, but they can be grown as annuals in zones 3–7. Plant the tubers in the spring, and by the middle or end of summer, the plants will be blooming.
When to Plant Dahlia?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as this will depend on your climate and soil conditions. However, generally speaking, Dahlias should be planted between late spring and early summer in warm climates and fall or winter in cold climates. Once you have decided when to plant Dahlias, you must choose the right variety for your location and needs. Some of the most popular varieties include ‘Strawberry Jubilee,’ ‘White Swan,’ ‘Blushing Bride,’ ‘Café Au Lait,’ and ‘Golden Tiara.’ Once you’ve selected a variety, ensure that you dig up the old plants before planting new ones, so they have enough space to grow, and flowers will continue appearing year-round!
Dahlias take around 50 days to reach maturity, so you’ll want to plant them about 6 weeks before your desired flowering time.
Planting Dahlia Outdoor
A sheltered location with maximum sunlight is best for growing Dahlias outdoors. A south or west-facing border will give your dahlia the most exposure to direct sun. Avoid planting them in locations that receive heavy afternoon shade, as they will not perform well in those conditions.
Planting Dahlia Indoor
Cultivation of Dahlias indoors is possible in most temperate climates. Since they are not particular about soil conditions, you can grow them in any fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Indoors, dahlias usually bloom best when the temperatures remain around 70°F for 8 to 10 weeks during the growing season (June through September). When growing Dahlia containers indoors, use a high-quality peat-free compost made specifically for plants.
Planting Dahlia In Containers
Dahlias can be grown in containers anywhere with enough room and good drainage. Choose a container that has been prepped and ready to plant by removing any large debris.
How to Plant Dahlias
Dahlias are popular flowers planted on the ground or in containers. There are a few things that you will need to plant dahlias: quality soil, dahlia rhizomes (the plants’ roots), potting mix, water, and sun.
Planting Instruction:
- Before planting your dahlias, ensure the area is well-drained and free of toxins.
- You can purchase dahlia rhizomes at most garden supply stores or online or ask to your neighbors.
- Once you have purchased or get them, prepare the soil by mixing 1 part loam with 2 parts organic matter such as compost or manure.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the dahlia tubers with plenty of organic matter at the bottom to help with pH balance.
- Plant the tubers in your desired location, so they are about 1 inch deep, and water them lightly as soon as planting occurs.
- Keep them moist but not soggy throughout their growing season. You may also want to give them some nutrients afterward.
- Make sure to adjust the mixture according to your soil’s fertility level. Add more loam for dry soils while substituting some organic matter with sand for clay soils.
- Add enough water to reach a depth of 6 inches, and then place the root system into the prepared ground.
- Water generously every day until growth begins. This should take about two weeks.
- When buds begin to form on top of each rhizome, transfer them carefully onto individual pots using a fork or fingers. Don’t pull too much up at once since this may damage their delicate stems.
- Once the flowers start blooming, gradually reduce watering until flowering is complete, which will usually happen in early summer (around July).
- Do not fertilize during this time. Simply maintain proper moisture levels.
- Mulch around Dahlia plants after flowering if desired for warmth or protection from critters like rabbits or deer who might nibble on young buds/flowers off crops.
Staking Dahlias
Staking Dahlias is a process that allows you to grow larger and healthier dahlias by attaching the flowers directly to stakes. By doing this, you can prevent them from sprawling or leaning in any direction, and they will remain relatively upright during flowering.
Dahlias are prone to wilting if left unsupported, so staking helps keep them hydrated and in their best possible condition. Additionally, it enhances flower production as well as color intensity. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for supports such as wires or ribbons. Instead, twine loops are used to securely secure the plants.
The harvesting process is just as simple. Simply cut off the desired number of blooms at ground level using sharp scissors. Then gently remove each bloom from its stake with your fingers before dropping them into your fresh produce bag or container!