Archive

Featured Bulb: Dahlias

April 6, 2009  |  bulbs
Colorful dahlias

Dahlias are easy plants to grow and yield beautiful blooms from mid-summer through fall. In many respects, "dahlia culture" is similar to "tomato culture." If you can grow tomatoes in your garden, you can successfully grow dahlias. Native to Mexico and South America,

they made their way to the Netherlands in the early 1800’s, where the breeding began that resulted in all the spectacular choices we have today. There are a great variety of forms of dahlias, from the showy dinner-plate size to the bright, little single ones, perfect for borders. Start them early indoors in pots, and you can enjoy their blooms from early summer through frost. Plant 10-18” apart. Dahlias grow best in full sun and well-drained soil; provide water and fertilizer throughout their active growing season. Lift from the ground and store for the winter in shallow trays.