Growing dahlias from seed is a fun and rewarding way to expand your garden. While there are a few different ways to get more of these beauties, starting them from scratch is a great project for any green thumb. Let’s walk through how to harvest your own seeds and grow brand-new dahlias the easy way.
Ways to Multiply Your Dahlias
Besides starting from seed, there are a couple of other ways to propagate dahlias if you want to expand your collection:
- Taking cuttings
- Dividing the root tubers
Getting Your Hands on Dahlia Seeds
You can easily pick up a packet of dahlia seeds at your local garden center, but harvesting them from your own backyard is way more satisfying! It does take a little bit of finesse, though. Timing is everything—if you pick them too early or wait until they’re past their prime, they won’t germinate, and you’ll be left with empty pots.
Spotting the Perfect Ripeness
Dahlia seeds grow inside a small protective pod. You’ll know they’re ready for harvest the moment that pod starts to crack open. To make sure you don’t miss the window, keep a close eye on your fading blooms. Once those pods look like they’re about to burst, it’s go-time for collecting.
Prepping Your Seeds for Success
Once you’ve gathered your seeds, lay them out on some paper towels or newspaper in a warm, dry spot. Let them air out for about three to four weeks. Once they are bone-dry, you can tuck them away in small envelopes or matchboxes until you’re ready to plant.
How to Sow Your Dahlia Seeds
Ready to get growing? Just follow these simple steps:
- Scatter your seeds into a seed tray filled with high-quality seed-starting mix. Give them a very light dusting of soil on top—don’t bury them too deep!
- Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) and place the tray in a bright spot. They love a cozy temperature between 65°F and 70°F (18-20°C).
- In a few weeks, you’ll see little seedlings popping up with their first set of leaves. Once the danger of frost has passed (usually late May), you can transplant them directly into your garden beds or into decorative pots.
The “Surprise” Factor
One thing to keep in mind with seed-grown dahlias is that they aren’t always “true to type.” Because bees and the wind move pollen all over the garden, you never quite know what color or shape you’re going to get. Your new plant might look totally different from its parent! Most gardeners actually love this—it’s like a colorful surprise party in your flower bed.
A Pro Tip for Success
If you’re looking for the best results, try harvesting seeds from “single-flowered” dahlias (the ones where you can easily see the center). These varieties usually produce a ton of high-quality, fertile seeds that grow into nice, sturdy plants.
