Growing dahlias in D.C.

Does anyone have advice about growing dahlias in Washington, DC? I'll be trying them for the first time this year.

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Permalink Reply by Wilt on May 4, 2009 at 12:15pm

I am just a tad North and East of DC and have had good success with dahlias over the years. Digging the tubers before really cold temps hit does seem to be necessry in our area as they are only hardy in zones 7-11, but I have gotten by when some were missed and the winter temps were above normal. If you create a warmer micro-climate by planting them on south-facing protected areas--maybe on a rise to prevent cold from settling in a low area--and then cover with heavy mulch, they might not require lifting. Plus, DC might be just far enough south--course all the hot air fromthe politicians could help also!.

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Permalink Reply by DJB on June 13, 2009 at 7:28am

Thanks, Wilt. This is helpful. My new dahlias are now starting to flower, although some of the plants seem a bit stunted. Unfortunately, my house is three miles from the Capitol, political hot air tends to dissipate before it reaches my serene back yard.