Pollinator Dahlias Summer Fireworks – Renee’s Garden
Dahlia variabilis
- Full sun
- 7-14 days to germinate
- Pollinators friendly: honeybees, butterflies and hummingbirds
- Cut flower
Easy to grow from seed, these vigorous dahlias bloom hard all season in an explosion of colorful blossoms. The branching plants reach 3 ½ to 5 feet with a season long profusion of cheerful 4 to 5 inch, slightly curved, spidery blossoms that shine in wonderful colors: cherry, lemon chiffon, peach, red, alabaster, coral and rich burgundy. Summer Fireworks blossoms attract and feed an amazing array of different pollinators including honeybees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Make big bouquets all summer!
Best to start early indoors, Sow seeds 2 inches apart in containers of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last spring frost. Cover ½ inch deep, keep moist and warm and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. When weather is warm and settled, acclimate seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions. Plant 16-18 inches apart in full sun.
To start directly outdoors, Wait until weather is warm and settled and night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds ½ inch deep and 16-18 inches apart in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Cover lightly and keep soil moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When well-established, thin carefully to one single seedling 16-18 inches apart, so plants have room to grow. Keep evenly watered.
Encourage growth and bloom by feeding monthly with a liquid, all-purpose fertilizer. Deadhead to prolong bloom. These dahlias will produce underground tubers after their first season.
In mild winter climates: Tubers can overwinter in the ground. In cold winter climates: Dig up the tubers in late fall to replant next spring.
Approximate Seed Count: 50
 Planting Depth: 1/2″                                                  Seed Spacing: 12-14″                                                   Â
