Growing Dahlias

[Cerwin]

Growing Dahlias


Dahlias are considered one of the most spectacular garden flowers.
They are also thought to require a great deal of care. Both of these
statements are true to some extent. There is a great variety of form
in dahlias, from the showy dinner-plate size to the bright, little
single ones. Dahlias require some special care, especially lifting for
winter storage. However, with minimum care, beautiful dahlia blooms
will grace your garden from July until frost. Dahlias should be
planted in a sunny location. The soil should be rich and well-drained
with a pH of about 6.5. Wait until all danger of spring frost is past
before planting.

Bedding dahlias can be planted 9 to 12 inches apart. The smaller-
flowering types, which are usually about three feet tall, should be
spaced two feet apart. The taller, larger-flowered dahlias should be
spaced three feet apart. Dig the planting hole slightly larger than
the root ball of the plant and incorporate some compost or sphagnum
peat moss into the soil. Plant dahlias so the crowns are just above
soil level. Tall, large-flowered cultivars will require support. Place
stakes (five to six feet tall) around plants at planting time and tie
stems to them as the plants grow.

Dahlias tend to have shallow roots so be careful when cultivating.
About the end of June, mulch plants with well-aged compost, aged
manure, peat, or straw. Water plants regularly if rain is insufficient
but avoid wetting the foliage. Dahlias require a rich soil; a
commercial fertilizer low in nitrogen, such as a 5-20-20, worked into
the soil a month before planting is good preparation. As plants grow,
a monthly feeding will encourage large blooms. If using a granular
fertilizer, water it in thoroughly after application. Do not fertilize
dahlias after mid-August.



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