Dahlias grown from packets of seed are best treated as annuals. The seeds are available on spinners in many shops, garden centres and from seed suppliers. You can also collect the seed in autumn from your own plants.

Dahlias from Thompson Morgan

Tips for Seed grown Dahlia

• Sown in March or April in an indoor seed tray Dahlias will flower in late summer and through autumn until the frost turns the leaves black.
• Mixed packets will generally be single flowered like a big very colourful Daisy.
• Special variety packets can aim to provide Cactus (petals arranged in a spiky style),  Collarette (petals arranged in a  circle with stamen like the iris of the eye) and semi double styles.
• The seed is large and the results can be stunning so Dahlia is a good plant for children to plant.
• Some varieties have red or maroon leaves for added attraction.
• If the soil is acid  a dressing with lime would help the plants when planted about
• Water and feed during summer for an excellent autumn display
• You will often see these plants in Parks and public gardens as they are easy to maintaining.
• If you spot a good variety you can try save any tuber that has grown by keeping it frost free during winter.

See a mosaic of Pink Dahlias with top ten pointers

 

Cactus hybrids produce curvaceous, spiky blooms and are a huge cut flower source.

Dwarf bushy dahlias with delightful “collarette” form (quilled) flower in many shades of red, yellow, orange and white.

Pompone mixed should be sown in trays, pots, etc of good seed compost in a propagator or warm place to maintain an optimum temperature of 65-70F (18-20C).
Sowing Depth: 1/16in (1.5mm). Sowing Time: February-March. Germination usually takes 7-21 days.
Transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots when large enough to handle taking care NOT to damage the roots.