Right about now dahlias are strutting their stuff in Utah’s most striking gardens. With dazzling colors, showy blooms and statures short to tall, these summertime showstoppers put on a powerful and long-lasting performance (all the way to fall’s first frost), requiring only simple care and know-how. We turned to the pros at Utah State University Extension for some green-thumbed advice.

  Plant dahlias in well-drained soil

Select a site that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Ensure good air circulation and protection from strong winds.

When the three buds that form at the end of each branch reach the size of small peas, remove the two side buds to increase blossom size.

  Stake all dahlias (except for dwarf varieties). Insert stakes at planting time to prevent injuring developing roots.

  Water the plants often enough to keep the soil moist. To prevent mildew, soak at the base of the stem rather than sprinkling the foliage.

  Position large dahlia plants three to four feet apart to provide ample room to grow. extension.usu.edu

Dahlia Décor

Dahlia fabric by Sanderson, to the trade, John Brooks Inc.
Zara dahlia chair, $80, zaraliving.com
Wallpaper, $88 per roll, Serena and Lily, serenaandlily.com
Outdoor pillows, $70 each, Glass House, SLC

See more inside the Summer 2017 issue. 

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