Last Updated on October 15, 2022 by Griselda M.
Can dahlias grow indoors or you can only grow them outdoors what growing conditions should you provide for your plants?
Dahlias are the most famous and beautiful flower in the world. This is the first thing that comes into your mind when you think about the word dahlia. Dahlias are easy to grow and they can be grown all year round.
They have a huge range of colors and sizes. Dahlias grow very well in the greenhouse or on a patio. This article will answer the question – can dahlias grow indoors and give you all the information you need about growing them indoors?
Can Dahlias Grow Indoors?
Dahlias can grow either indoors or outdoors. You can buy potted Dahlias and plant them outside in summer time or you can buy bare-rooted Dahlias and plant them in the garden. The difference between these two ways of growing Dahlias is that you will have to water them more often if you grow them outside.
If you want to grow them outside, you should buy a special pot with a drainage hole in the bottom of it. You can also buy a special pot with a drainage hole if you want to grow them in the greenhouse.
Learn more about the 18 Best Flowers That Grow In Water Indoors
Growing Conditions For Dahlias:
The growing conditions for Dahlias are similar to other flowers such as roses or hydrangeas.
Ideal location
Dahlias like a lot of sun and they can tolerate light frost. However, they need protection from strong winds. It is also very important that they receive enough water.
They can grow well in pots and you can even grow them in the ground. If you live in a cold climate, you should plant them in containers and then plant them outside in springtime. If you grow them outside, you should water them less often than when you grow them indoors. Indoor growing conditions: Dahlias can grow both in pots and in the ground.
Watering
They should be watered regularly and you should not leave them dry for longer than 2 days. When the weather is really hot, Dahlias do better if they have a shaded area in which they can cool off. Dahlias need to be watered regularly.
They also like to be kept slightly wet during hot weather, but not too wet. The root system of Dahlias is shallow, and they need to be kept well-watered. It is suggested to keep them indoors during winter.
Fertilizer
Dahlias need fertilization every few weeks with a general fertilizer. It can be mixed into the soil before planting or applied in small doses as a foliar spray.
Temperature
Dahlias-like temperatures between 55-70 degrees F (13-21 degrees C). The roots will develop best at this temperature.
Light
Dahlias require full sun. The plants do well in bright light, but they need some shade in the afternoon.
Pests
Dahlias are relatively pest-free.
Seedlings
Dahlias should be planted when seedlings are at least three inches high. It is recommended to use a mix of peat, sand, and perlite for potting soil.
Transplanting
Dahlias are usually transplanted after the first frost. If you want to grow them in the garden, prepare the soil well before planting. A mixture of peat, sand, and perlite is suitable as potting soil.
Caring For Dahlias Growing Indoors
The best and easiest dahlias to grow are the true dahlias (Dahlia variabilis). These flowers have an extra layer of tissue around their base that protects them from the cold. True dahlias are more fragrant and longer-lasting than those sold as ‘disco dahlias’. They are also more disease-resistant.
Buy a plant when it is flowering
This will ensure the plant has produced the maximum number of blooms possible. Take cuttings in autumn. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants that are growing well.
Use a sharp knife or scissors to remove a piece of stem about 1cm long and 2cm wide. Press the base of the cutting into moist sand in a large, shallow dish. When the stem has wilted, place the dish on a sunny windowsill. Keep the cutting in a cool but not cold room and water daily until new roots appear.
Prune in spring
Prune all dahlias to encourage new growth. Remove faded flowers and dead or diseased leaves. Cut out any suckers that appear.
Water regularly
Dahlias need a constant supply of moisture to develop strong stems and roots. Water at least once a week during summer and twice a month during winter. If you live in a very dry area, water less often. Dahlias do not like to sit in water for long periods. They will rot if they are wet for more than 12 hours.
Fertilize in spring
Dahlias are grown in gardens where the soil is naturally fertile. In such cases fertilizing is unnecessary. If your garden soil is poor, use a general-purpose fertilizer. Apply it every two weeks during summer and early autumn.
Fertilize every three months in spring and autumn. A light application of a balanced fertilizer with a slow-release element is best. Do not apply any fertilizer when the plant is flowering. This will reduce the number of blooms.
Take Home – Can Dahlias Grow Indoors
Dahlias are native to South America, but they have been widely cultivated since the 16th century. Dahlias were brought to Europe by the Dutch in the 17th century. They were first introduced to Britain in 1856 and became very popular. By the 1860s they were the most popular cut flower in England.
Dahlias are still grown as annuals in many parts of the world, particularly in northern Europe, North America, and Japan. The Dahlia Society of America is dedicated to the cultivation, study, and promotion of all dahlias and cultivars of the genus.
So if anyone asks you can dahlias grow indoors? You now have a clear answer as these plants can thrive both indoors and outdoors.
Read more about: Growing Dahlias From Seed Indoors – Secrets To Success
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dahlias bloom all year indoors?
Yes, you can grow Dahlias indoors during the winter months. They can be grown in a sunny window or under artificial lights. You will need to water your potted plants frequently. They should be watered until the soil is moist but not soggy. Once they are well established, you can cut them back to increase the blooming season.
How do you keep potted dahlias alive?
Dahlias need a large pot with lots of room for roots to spread. If you only have a small container, you might want to consider re-potting them in a larger pot when they are about six inches tall. They need plenty of light, so position them where they get direct sunlight for at least eight hours per day. Make sure you fertilize your dahlias regularly but don’t over-fertilize. If you fertilize too much, you can end up with stunted plants that never bloom.
How do you grow dahlia bulbs indoors?
The easiest way to grow dahlia bulbs indoors is by planting them in a large pot or tray filled with peat moss or coarse sand. Fill the pot or tray with soil so that the bottom is about an inch below the rim of the pot. You should use a fertilizer specifically designed for dahlias. Mix it into the potting soil before adding the bulbs. Water your dahlia bulbs thoroughly.
Do dahlias like sun or shade?
Sunlight is important for dahlias, but it’s not essential. Dahlias are happy in both full sun and partial shade. If you live in a sunny area, they will grow more quickly. Dahlias need lots of light, so position them where they get direct sunlight for at least eight hours per day. You can also grow them in a greenhouse if you have one.