Dahlias

I’m growing dahlias for the first time from seed. I started them in my greenhouse in mid March and transplanted them in the garden in mid April. I’m growing them under my tiny hoop house and plan on putting a giant shade cloth to protect them from the harsh summer sun. The seeds are a mixed variety from Floret Farm. I can’t wait to identify the blooms and collect the tubers of the ones I like the most. I plan on pinching them in the next two weeks to promote bushier plants. The recommended spacing is 18 inches but I don’t have a ton of growing space so I planted them a little closer. I’ll just have to be vigilant with catching disease and pets. EeeK! I’m excited. I needed a new summer challenge, because I get really tired of zinnias in summertime. :)