How To Grow Dahlia From Seeds
Dahlias are beautiful flowers that can add a burst of color to your garden. While they are usually propagated through division, they can also be grown from seeds.
Growing dahlias from seeds can be a fun and rewarding experience, as it allows you to see the full lifecycle of the plant and to have a wider variety of dahlia cultivars in your garden.
Here's how to grow dahlias from seeds:
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Start indoors: Dahlia seeds need to be started indoors about six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. This will give the seeds enough time to germinate and grow into seedlings that can be planted outside after the danger of frost has passed.
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Use quality seed-starting mix: Fill seed trays or pots with a good quality seed-starting mix. This will provide the seeds with the necessary nutrients and moisture they need to germinate.
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Sow the seeds: Place the dahlia seeds on top of the soil and gently press them into the surface. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, but don't bury them too deep as they need light to germinate.
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Keep the soil moist: Keep the soil moist but not soaked, as this can lead to mold and disease. A spray bottle can be useful for keeping the soil moist, as you can avoid disturbing the seeds when watering.
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Provide light: Place the seed trays or pots in a warm, bright location. Dahlia seeds need light to germinate, so be sure to place them near a window that gets plenty of sun. You can also use grow lights if you don't have enough natural light.
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Monitor for germination: Keep an eye on the seeds and look for signs of germination, which usually takes place within 10-14 days. Once the seeds have germinated, keep the soil moist and continue to provide light until the seedlings are ready to be planted outside.
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Transplant outside: After the last expected frost date has passed, the seedlings can be planted outside. Choose a location that gets plenty of sun and has well-drained soil. Space the seedlings about 12-18 inches apart.
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Water and fertilize regularly: Make sure to water the seedlings regularly and fertilize them every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. This will help them grow strong and healthy and will encourage them to produce lots of flowers.
With a little bit of care and attention, you can successfully grow dahlias from seeds and enjoy their beautiful blooms in your garden.
In a warm climate, Dahlias sprout and bloom every year from their underground tubers.
With a wide range of cultivars available, you can choose the perfect dahlias for your garden. Happy planting!
