Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000487
11/12/99
Dahlia
Height: 6 ft Spacing: 2 ft
Type: tender bulb
Flowers: Orange, pink, purple, red, white, yellow (Vis. 1).
Comments: The many types of Dahlia like a fertile, well-
drained soil with a constant supply of moisture. Mulch
the bed and avoid giving the plants high nitrogen. On
poor sites the plants are leggy. Best growth occurs in
full sun but the plants tolerate partial shade. Do not
plant Dahlias until the soil has warmed up as the roots
rot in cold wet soil. Tall varieties may need a support
stake installed at planting time. Removal of side buds
gives larger flowers and removing the old flowers as they
fade promotes increased blooming. Dwarf cultivars are
planted 12 to 18 inches apart. Most Dahlias are planted 6
to 10 inches deep. Frosted plants are cut off 4 to 6
inches above ground level. Dig the roots and allow them
to dry. Cover them with sand or peat and store them at 50
degrees.
Propagation: Dahlias are propagated by division or
cuttings. For cuttings, use new shoots and make cuttings
3 to 4 inches long. Remove the basal leaves and insert
the cuttings in sand, perlite or vermiculite. The root
clumps are divided in the spring. Each division needs
part of the old stem on it.
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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