Garden Dahlia

Garden dahlias are cultivated plants with a wide range of flower forms, colors, and mature sizes, so a general profile cannot describe every named selection. They are grown for seasonal flowers in borders, cutting gardens, and containers, and usually perform best in a bright, well-drained site. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dahlia/common-name/dahlia/) ## Site and growing Most dahlias grow in full sun to partial shade and prefer fertile soil that stays moist but drains freely. They may flower from late summer until frost, although timing varies with climate, planting date, and cultivar. In hot weather, mulch and regular water help prevent stress. Avoid waterlogged soil, which can encourage root problems. Dahlias are commonly planted from tubers, and their many cultivated forms include both compact bedding types and taller garden varieties. ## Garden use Use garden dahlias in mixed borders, cottage gardens, cutting beds, or containers. Their flower colors and heights vary widely, so choose a particular cultivar when a specific size or color is needed. Dahlias can attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while adding a long season of bloom. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dahlia/common-name/dahlia/) [American Dahlia Society](https://www.dahlia.org/growing/fundamentals-of-growing-dahlias/) ## Maintenance Remove spent flowers to extend bloom. Where winters are too cold for tubers to remain in the ground, lift them after frost, dry them carefully, and store in a cool, frost-free place. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dahlia/common-name/dahlia/)