Dahlias – A Traditional Favorite Perfect for Today’s Gardens

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Add some elegance, color or fun to the garden with dahlias. These traditional plants come in a variety of sizes, shapes and color, making them a great choice for any garden.

You can find dahlias as short as 12 inches and as tall as five feet. Flowers can be two to ten inches in diameter, depending on the variety.

And then there are the unique flower shapes. The cactus types with curved petals that resemble spines. The fringed flowers of laciniated provide interesting texture while the ball types form balls of neatly arranged petals. And then there are the orchids, anemone, decorative, waterlily and more.

Start the tuberous roots indoors for earlier bloom in the garden. Or plant them directly in the garden or container for an added late season bloom.

Grow in a sunny location with moist well-drained soil. And add a decorative stake to support the large flowered and taller varieties.

A bit more information: Visit your favorite garden center or check bulb catalogues and online sources for an even greater selection of dahlia varieties. For tips on starting these bulbs indoors, watch my Melinda’s Garden Moment video on starting cannas, dahlias and other non-hardy bulbs indoors.

For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com.