The Hudson Gardens and Event Center Located Near Denver, Colorado, in the City of Littleton

Featured Plant of the Month: Dahlia, Dahlia spp.

Garden Location: Dahlia Display Bed
Distinguishing Features: The Dahlia’s striking blooms are undoubtedly its most distinctive feature. Appearing in over fifteen color combinations, the Dahlia can be single-color, bicolor, or variegated with light or dark blends. The appearance of Dahlia blooms also vary widely: the petals can be flat, curled, twisted, pointed, wavy, rolling forwards or backwards, and can take both symmetrical and asymmetrical forms. Dahlia sizes range from “Giants” with diameters of 10” or greater, to “Mignon Singles” with diameters of less than 2”. The three most common sizes are the Dinnerplate, Medium, and Small Dahlias. The Dinnerplate Dahlia is the most well-known, and tallest at 3-4’ high, with double flowers that have diameters of 10-12” or more. Slightly smaller is the Medium Dahlia, also known as the Border Dahlia, which is more compact and only grows to 1-2’ tall. Small Dahlias, which grow from 10-20” in height, have the longest bloom season and often flower until the first frost.
Growth and Maintenance: Dahlias are grown as perennials in most parts of the country, but grow as annuals in Colorado’s climate. They prefer warm weather with full sunlight and should be planted after the last frost. Dahlias need lots of water as they develop buds and approach flowering season in midsummer. After reaching a height of 10” they require 1” of water per week. Dahlias need to be fertilized monthly with a water-soluble organic flower fertilizer. Dinnerplate Dahlias may require staking support to withstand strong winds and rain.
Fun fact: Dahlias were originally considered vegetables rather than flowers because of their edible tubers.