The month of September we harvest more dahlias than any other month of the year! It may be the area we grow in, the varieties that we grow, or the excellent soil foundation that we’ve established. Whatever the reason, we’re happy with the bountiful harvests!
Some folks question the worthiness of a dahlia—the time spent from beginning to the stage of blooming. To me, what’s substantial is worth the time spent and dahlias are just that: substantial!
Dahlias are the perfect solution for the flower farmer throughout September and October—they’re one showstopper that will carry a farmer until frost. While all other annuals are seeing their last days, if not already been pulled, you can lean in on the sales of your dahlias. Each year I see this to be more true. When fresh cuts drop in production, sales will plummet, and dahlias will save the day/season. I love pairing them with autumn foliage and other fall bloomers. Dahlias are a big dollar maker in the flower farming business, therefore well worth the extra hours it takes to ensure a successful crop!
Throughout the season and the coming month, we pinch our dahlias to achieve a consistent flow of blooms. One benefit to doing this is that many dahlias are a ‘cut and come again’ flower, but only when properly pinched and stems are deeply cut to encourage continued growth. Every day, or every other day, the mature dahlias are harvested. I will also deadhead them and clean them up. I like to cut away any damaged, broken stems and fallen over foliage to maintain a healthy environment for the remainder of the growing season.
As amazing as dahlias are, they don’t have a long vase life compared to some of the other favorites here at the farm. To ensure the longest vase life for your floral piece, keep it in a cool, indoor area out of direct sunlight. Change the water every other day to keep them hydrated and bacteria free. Normally blooms will last about five – six days with dinnerplate dahlias lasting somewhat shorter.
The Go Go White Border Dahlia has been the absolute favorite for customers when grabbing dahlia bouquets this year! It’s the one that the eye is drawn to and seems to have a longer than normal vase life.
The yellow dahlia pictured above offers a stunning bloom size with an amazing, vibrant yellow color. This suits well with the month of September going into October for autumn floral pieces
As the coming month comes into play, stay alert on the first hard frost date. Believe me, you’ll thank me later! Remember when that date comes, harvest all your dahlias the evening before to have a week’s worth of blooms!
Happy Autumn, garden friends!
Pamela Anthony
Beehind Thyme Farm & Garden