Crop Feature: Dahlias

I could write a book on Dahlias (I plan to one of these days…). But I’ll try to condense to the most important parts.

Dahlias are what I consider a quasi-perennial in our climate. They run a normal annual cycle- sprout in Spring, grow through summer, killed by frost in Fall. But we live in a climate that the tubers can overwinter in so therefore— quasi perennial!

Our climate is everything Dahlias hate- hot, humid, heavy clay soil, heavy downpours, etc. But we persist because of the high demand for them and because they are so beautiful!!

Dahlias best season in our area is late August- October. This is when they are in their prime. If you get them before this, it’s important to note that their vase life may be reduced when harvested in high heat.

They are over 20 different forms of dahlias but really you only need to know a few of them to buy from a local grower:

Ball (can also be called honeycomb, pom pon) Balls can have different forms to the petals and range from 1”-5” in size but they generally have a full round shape.

Decoratives are frilly, ruffly petals- looser in appearance. Can range in size from 3-12”.

Waterlily- they look like well….waterlilies. These dahlias actually close up a little at night (which gives them a peony like appearance). Can range in size from 3-6”.

Stem Length: 18-24” - depends on variety
In Season: Mid-August to mid November (first frost)
Dries Well: Yes, hang dry
Vase Life: 3-7 days, depends on variety; usually the smaller the flower, the longer the vase life