Dahlias are back on the gardener  scene, with their flowers so diverse. Dahlia, born in Mexico, is a half hardy plant, with tuberous roots.

Since it arrived in Europe, three centuries ago, gardeners have created amazing hybrids. Ranging from 30cm high at nearly 1.50m tall, and almost all forms and all colors exist.

For example, pompom dahlia, whose assembly petals reminds a honeycomb; Dahlia cactus, with disheveled petals; Dahlia ball that forms a tight ball; Dahlia decorative, with broad petals together in very large flowers double; dahlia to peony flower, opulent, pure and simple dahlia, dahlia flange; dahlias lace, water lily, with anemone or clematis: the choice is vast.

As for colors, it’s the same diversity. All are represented, except the pure blue. Hundreds of different colors, with a purple that can be described as almost black, light up our gardens and houses, as these are flowers that are wonderful in bouquets.

The growing season is very short n North America, it is advantageous to begin development of dahlias (bulbs yearly) inside, about a month before they are put in the ground, which takes place when the ground is thawed and any risk of frost has passed.

Start growing dahlias inside allows for an earlier flowering, once they are transplanted in the ground. Moreover, the forcing of tubers facilitates the development of young plants, making them more vigorous and resistant to outside enemies.

To do this, the tubers are deposited in a pot, which was previously covered the bottom with a layer of peat mixed with sand or not. Dahlias are then covered with the same substrate, then place the pot in a bright room. It is important to keep the soil wet for the emergence of new shoots.

Plant them in the sun, in deep soil with good drainage.

Perform regular watering if it does not rain. When the dahlias have a twenty inch, pinch the ends of stems for the plant branches. Remember to stake the largest. Watch out for slugs fond of the young shoots!

Every day from July to October, take a good look at dahlias, and clean them up by removing faded flowers. They are not only unsightly, but they prevent a new flowering.

With pruning shears, cut the stem that bears the faded flower, just above a leaf left. Please do not remove the buttons already formed.