Dahlia Care Guide: Fylde Coast Edition
Get ready for a summer explosion of colour! The Plant Place Dahlia Festival is here, bursting with a vibrant display of these stunning summer blooms. We know keeping these beauties thriving, every year, can be challenging with our coastal winds and chilly winters. That's why we've created a handy dahlia care guide.
The Plant Place Dahlia Care Guide: Fylde Coast Edition
Sun & Shelter:
Dahlias love the sun! Aim to plant in a sunny spot in your garden. However, the strong coastal winds on the Fylde Coast can be damaging. Choose a sheltered spot, perhaps next to a fence or wall, to protect your blooms from the brunt of the wind.
Salty Sea Breezes:
Our coastal location brings a unique challenge – salt spray! If you live near the sea, rinse off salt build-up on your dahlia leaves with fresh water every few weeks. This will prevent browning and keep your plant healthy.
Planting Perfection:
Timing: Plant your dahlia tubers after the last frost, typically late May or early June here on the Fylde Coast.
Dig Deep: Aim for a planting depth of 4-6 inches, with the "claw" pointing upwards.
Spacing: Give your dahlias enough room to grow. Space single dahlias 18-24 inches apart, and larger varieties up to 3 feet apart.
This year, we have you covered. Visit and browse our Dahlia Festival and choose stunning varieties already in bloom.
Feeding & Watering:
Water Wisely: Water your dahlia regularly, especially during hot, dry spells. Aim for deep watering at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves.
Feed Me! Apply a feed such as Seaweed or liquid Q4 every 4-6 weeks throughout the summer to encourage vibrant blooms.
Winter Care:
Unlike some warmer regions, dahlias may not survive the Fylde Coast winter in the ground. Here's how to protect your tubers for next year:
Lift & Dry: After the first frost, carefully lift the dahlia tubers from the ground. Cut away any remaining stems and brush off excess soil.
Sunbathe: Allow the tubers to dry in a warm, well-ventilated place for a few days.
Snuggle Up: Pack the tubers in a cardboard box or paper bag filled with slightly damp (not wet) wood shavings or coir. Store them in a cool, frost-free place over winter, like a shed or garage.
Top Tip: Label your tubers before storing them so you remember the variety come spring!
With a little care, your dahlias will thrive and bring you a summer explosion of colour for years to come. Happy planting!
