How to Grow Beautiful Dahlias
Are you looking for a great flower that can grow in colder temperatures?
Happy Monday everyone! How was your weekend? Did you do any planting? My grandfather always says to plant after Memorial Day in Michigan. So if you’re like me, it is time to get serious about our summer gardens and today we are getting serious about planting dahlias.
A Few Reasons to Plant Dahlias
Here are a few reasons why planting dahlias is a great decision for almost every garden.
- If you live in a colder climate, like zones 8-10, dahlias are a great flower for you.
- They bloom mid-summer through the frost.
- Dahlias are not only beautiful, but they can also attract butterflies, humming birds, and are drought tolerant.
How to Plant Dahlias
The first thing to consider is location, location, location. Just like humans, dahlias appreciate a great location. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac,
Dahlias thrive in humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Choose a location with a bit of protection from the wind. Large dahlias and those grown solely for cut flowers are best grown in a dedicated plot in rows on their own, free from competition from other plants. Dahlias of medium to low height mix well with other summer flowers.”
The next step is plant dahlia tubers whole and about 6-8 inches deep with the growing points facing up. Dahlias prefer soil that is rich in high-nitrogen at first then towards midsummer early fall they prefer high-potassium.
A Quick Tip from Better Homes and Gardens:
Expert dahlia growers recommend pinching off the first crop of side flower buds to encourage vigorous plant branching and larger flowers in peak season. All dahlias are fodder for brilliant seasonal cut bouquets and are always one of the most popular cut flowers at local farmer’s markets. Their blooming season extends into fall and is only halted by the first frost.”
As with all your summer planting, including Rootsticks on your gardening “must have” list is a wise choice. Rootsticks allow for your plants to receive the proper nutrition, water and oxygen to reach their maximum potential.
What is on your “must haves” list for your garden for the summer of 2013?
