A dahlia from seed that rivals plants started from rhizomes. Showpiece is appropriately named, having won numerous awards in the U.S., U.K., and Australia. The 4-foot plants with very sturdy stems carry 3 to 4 inch double blooms in bright shades of gold, crimson, purple, apricot, and numerous variations in the pink-red spectrum.

10 seeds

PLANTING

Dahlia variables

Annual

Germination: 15-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65–70F

Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface and lightly cover the seed

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost. Provide 65-70F soil temperatures. Transplant after the last frost date, 24-36 apart.

Sowing Outdoors: Direct sowing outdoors only in areas with a long growing season

Growth Habit: Upright

Height and Width: 36-48″ by 24-36″

Spacing:24-36″ apart

Light Needs: Sun

Soil Needs: Average to fertile, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed: 80-90 Days

Uses: Flower Beds, containers, cut flowers

Care: Water seedlings regularly until established. Amend soil with compost before planting. During the heat of summer, they will need to be watered a few times a week. Apply a liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks or use a time-release fertilizer at planting time. Supply a support structure for Tall dahlias when they are blooming. Dig tubers in fall to store over winter for planting the following season.