Dahlia from Seed

[sandersj89]

I have grown a fair few dahlias from seed this year, both Pompom and Cactus types. These are now in 3” pots ready to go out onto the plot for cut flowers later in the summer/autumn. They have been in a cold frame for a few weeks and we should be just about past the frosts now I hope.

My question is, having never grown them before, how much room per plant with they take up this year and come the autumn will they produce tubers big enough to lift and store for next year?

Thanks

Jerry

[sandersj89]

[philcooper]

Jerry,

I grow exhibition dahlias and allow 2' between plants - that leaves a small gap betwwen the plants when they are full grown.

I'm also trying the cactus from seed, they should form reasonable sized tubers.

Phil

[dibberxxx]

i have also grow dahlia from seed which was free with G N they have done really well but don't know how far apart so have just chucked them in and hoping for the best

[Merry Tiller]

It's like any plant I suppose, the more room you give them, the bigger the plant will grow, up to it's genetic limit of course

[sandersj89]

Many thanks all. I will try the 2' route this year.

Phil, I was very surprised by the differance in germination rates of Cactus vs Pompom. I got near 100% with the Pompom but less than 50% with the cactus. All seed from Kings Seed.

Just hope I get a decent crop of flowers from both!

I have also heard it is best not to feed them too much in case it results in lots of leaf but few flowers, what do you recommend?

Thanks

Jerry

[Mrs Ava]

oooer, I did the same as you Dibber and I have a lovely patch of young dahlias growing away, with only about 6 inches between each plant!  I sense a thinning session about to take place.  :-\

[philcooper]

Jerry,

They are very hungry and thirsty, lots of feed (high potash) and water!

Phil

[Andy H]

did pompom and showpiece 4" apart

[sandersj89]

Jerry,

They are very hungry and thirsty, lots of feed (high potash) and water!

Phil

Thanks for that. I will be transplanting them out at the weekend at the bottom of my first allotment. This is partially shaded and damp soil.

Just the feed to sort then!

Jerry