I am sure I can grow dahlias from seed but will they produce flowers the first year or would I be better to buy tubars? I am starting them next spring (2010) but want to be able to have lots of flowers to cut for my sons wedding in the fall of that year. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks.:)

Hi! browndaisy, and welcome to AMHD :)


I am sure I can grow dahlias from seed but will they produce flowers the first year or would I be better to buy tubars? I am starting them next spring (2010) but want to be able to have lots of flowers to cut for my sons wedding in the fall of that year. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks.:)

Starting in March this site had blooms in August, see bottom of page 3:
Growing Dahlias from Seeds (http://www.dahlias.net/dahwebpg/Seedlings/Seedlings1.htm)

A minor point 'bout starting from seed is color can't be guaranteed, where with tubers it can.

Other links of interest:
The American Dahlia Society - Home (http://www.dahlia.org/)
How to Grow Dahlias (http://www.dahlias.com/howtogrowdahlias.aspx#16)
A PDF of above page:
http://portlanddahlia.com/files/growing.pdf

Actually bd, I'm not the one to be talking to 'bout Dahlia's... Let me see if I can get our resident expert Just Dahlia to lend you a hand. :)

K

Sorry, I've only grown them with tubers:( I usually go the easy and sure way:)

Edit: I do know that my yellow ones only last a couple days inside before turning brown on the edges, but they are 'Dinner Plate' you might want to stay away from the lighter colors.