The Figaro Mix Dahlia Seed offers a beautiful assortment of vibrant blooms in various shades of orange, red, yellow, violet, and white. Known for their compact, bushy growth and early-blooming nature, these dahlias create a stunning array of color in garden beds, borders, and containers. This mix is perfect for gardeners looking for a colorful, low-maintenance display of beauty that lasts throughout the growing season.
Dahlia Growing Guide
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start dahlia seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Note that if seeds are sown later in the season, tubers may not form; however, plants will still flower beautifully.
- Germination Expectation: Dahlia seeds typically achieve up to 70% germination, so sow extra seeds to ensure adequate plants for your garden.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil.
- Firm the soil gently over the seeds and water lightly to keep the growing medium evenly moist.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-14 days, though germination rates may vary.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during germination, but avoid overwatering to prevent seed rot.
- Transplanting: Once seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots if needed. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days before planting them outdoors after the last frost date.
General Care Tips for Dahlia
- Sunlight: Dahlias thrive in full sun and require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming.
- Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. After planting outdoors, water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilizing: Feed dahlias with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
- Staking: For taller dahlia varieties, install stakes or supports at the time of transplanting to prevent damage from wind or heavy blooms.
- Pruning: Pinch back the top growth when plants reach about 12 inches tall to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.
- Pest and Disease Control: Dahlias can be affected by aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Treat pests with insecticidal soap and ensure good airflow by spacing plants properly to prevent disease.
- Harvesting:
- For Flowers: Harvest blooms when they are fully open for the longest vase life. Cut stems in the morning and place them in water immediately.
- Storage: Dahlias are best enjoyed fresh. In cooler climates, dig up tubers in the fall for storage and replant them in the spring.
