Project: Dahlias

Stake and tie off dahlias when they are about two feet tall. Stake them first near the ground, and as they grow taller, tie the top to the stake as well. If they aren't secured, plants will fall and break.

Prune dahlias back with a lateral cut so two blooms will grow from each cut. In mild climates, prune way back and leave plants in the ground over the winter season. In colder climates, lift them from the ground by the roots and store them in a warmer location until they can be replanted in the spring.

When picking for a bouquet, put flowers in a preservative overnight.

To propagate, dig up the whole clump, including the stem and tubers. Divide the tuber with a knife, making sure part of the old stem is attached. The plants should flourish and multiply for another season.

Guests
Linda Arietta
Owner, Country Essences Flowers
7 North Santa Cruze Ave.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Phone: 408-399-3995
Fax: 831-722-4409
Also in this Episode

Grow It! : Episode GRW-312
•	Spotlight Garden: Worldly Plant Collection in Berkeley, California
•	Project: Dahlias
•	Q&A: Easy Home Orchids
•	Gardening Q & A: How to Promote Root Growth in Stem Cuttings
•	Q&A: Ornamental Grass
•	Dead Nettle