Clockwise from Top Left: Dahlia 'Sylvia J', 'Moonfire', 'Little Show Off', 'Bishop of Llandaff', 'My Joy', 'Fascination', 'Seduction', 'Pink Suffusion' and 'Hayley Jane'(center)
There are few plants that offer the range of color, size and form that dahlias can provide. Their ease of culture and versatility make them a favorite to gardeners of all types. Many of us enjoy dahlias for their long bloom period in late summer and the abundance of cut flowers that they offer. They are also easy to share with friends and neighbors, and the parent plants benefit from being divided every few years.
Many of the single and collarette types are popular for those looking to integrate dahlias into mixed borders or bedding schemes with other plants, especially those with dark foliage like 'Bishop of Llandaff' and 'Moonfire.' Although it is my feeling that all dahlias should be staked for support, these types tend to flop less after summer rains and their simpler flower forms contrast well with a wide range of other flowers. That being said, there are no 'gardening rules' where dahlias are concerned and they are the perfect plant for those who are more adventurous with color. Feel free to be as bold and exhuberant as you like. The possibilities are nearly endless when you combine them with other summer-blooming flowers. To hobbyists and breeders, growing dahlias can take on an entirely different meaning as they try to produce plants with perfect form and larger flowers or try their hand at breeding new varieties.
To succeed with growing dahlias, it is imperative that they be planted in moist, well-drained soil that has been enriched with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted steer manure. They also benefit from supplemental feeding with alfalfa meal and an all purpose-organic fertilizer. Deep, regular waterings are crucial during their bloom period from mid to late summer and regular deadheading will proliferate their overall bloom. For best results, try to site dahlias where they will receive at least four hours of direct afternoon sun. Less sun will result in diminished performance. Dahlias may also experience powdery mildew (a fungal disease on the leaves) when they are drought-stressed or if they are sited in an area with poor air circulation (usually shaded).
If purchasing dahlias as dormant tubers in February or March, I would recommend potting them into small containers and storing them in an unheated garage or frost-free location until the beginning of April. At this point, go ahead and plant them outdoors if the ground isn't frozen.
Many reputable dahlia vendors will be selling their wares at the upcoming Northwest Flower and Garden Show beginning on Feb.18th (see 'Events'). A few to note are: Connell's (Tacoma, WA), Dan's Dahlias (Oakville, WA), and Swan Island Dahlias (Canby, OR). Cheers, Tim
