Dahlias are stunning, vibrant flowers that can light up any garden. Growing them from seeds is budget-friendly and rewarding—especially in India’s winter and early spring climate. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get those blooms going:
Best Time to Grow Dahlia
North India: September to November
South India: October to December
Dahlias love cool to moderate temperatures (15–25°C). Avoid peak summer or heavy monsoon.
Soil and Location
- Sunlight: Needs at least 4 hours of sun daily.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loose soil mixed with compost and cocopeat.
- Pots or Ground: At least 10-12 inches deep pots
Sowing the Seeds
Fill the soil in the seed tray or in a pot. Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep.
Mist the surface with water.
Germination & Seedling Care
- Place the trays in a bright, shaded area (no direct sun).
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Germination time: 7–14 days.
- Once seedlings have 2–3 sets of true leaves, Transplant them into larger pots (8–10 inches) or garden beds.
- Space plants about 12 inches apart for proper growth.
Care & Maintenance
- Watering: Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 2–3 weeks.
- Pinching: Pinch the top growth at 6–8 inches to encourage bushier plants.
Blooming & Maintenance
Dahlias grown from seed will flower in 8–12 weeks (2.5 to 3 months) after germination.
Bloom season: Late winter to early summer (or longer if nights stay cool)
Deadhead (remove faded flowers) to encourage continuous blooming.