how to care for dahlias

There’s a moment in mid-to-late summer when the garden truly comes alive, and often, dahlias are the stars of the show. With their intricate petals and spectacular range of colors and forms, these flowers are worth the little extra attention they require. Getting a magnificent bloom isn’t about having a secret green thumb; it’s about knowing the fundamentals of how to care for dahlias from the ground up. With some simple, consistent practices, you can enjoy an incredible display that lasts from summer right up to the first frost.

The Essentials of How to Care for Dahlias

Success with dahlias begins with two non-negotiable elements: sun and soil. Plant your tubers in a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. They thrive in rich, well-draining soil, so amending your garden bed with compost before planting is a fantastic start. Good drainage is critical, as sitting in water can cause the tubers to rot. Once the plants are about a foot tall, pinch the center shoot just above a set of leaves to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.

Keeping Your Dahlias Hydrated and Fed

Dahlias appreciate a deep, consistent drink. Aim to provide about an inch of water per week, focusing your watering at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. A layer of mulch can help retain that precious moisture. For feeding, a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content is best once they begin to form buds. This encourages strong blooms instead of excessive leafy growth. A bi-weekly treat with a liquid fertilizer or a single application of a slow-release formula will keep them powered through the season.

Encouraging More Gorgeous Blooms

The more you cut, the more they flower! Regularly cutting your dahlias for bouquets signals the plant to produce more stems and buds. Even if you aren’t making a bouquet, it’s wise to deadhead spent flowers. Simply snip the stem back to the next set of leaves. This keeps the plant looking tidy and directs all its energy into creating new blooms instead of producing seeds.

Preparing for Winter’s Rest

In colder climates where the ground freezes, dahlias need to be lifted and stored for the winter. After the first frost blackens the foliage, carefully dig up the tubers, let them dry for a day, and then store them in a cool, dark place in a box filled with slightly moist peat moss or vermiculite. In warmer zones, you can often leave them in the ground with a thick layer of mulch for protection.

Caring for dahlias is a rewarding cycle of planting, nurturing, and harvesting. By providing them with sunshine, good food, and a regular haircut, you’ll be amazed at how these stunning plants reward your efforts with an endless supply of color and beauty.