Getting To Know (A Few More) Dahlias - For Next Growing Season - August 2024

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I've had so much fun with the handful of dahlia tubers that I have in the garden this year that it has me thinking/dreaming of what might be next year.  More dahlias?  Yes, please.

I'm going to try to save the couple of Melina Fluer and Cornell Bronze tubers that I planted this year.  And, I'll probably buy another couple of each just in case.  

But, there's a WHOLE world of dahlias out there.  I've learned that I'm MOSTLY drawn to smaller blooms - pompons, balls, etc.  Not so much on Dinnerplate dahlias.  I also like shorter ones that don't require staking.  But, I'm open to trying a taller one next year. 

Poking around the Web and watching some gardeners on Instagram has turned me on to a handful of potential dahlia tubers that might go on my 2025 wish list.  

Here's some that are top of mind - right now.  

Dahlia Burlesca.  Via White Flower Farm.   They are short(er) at 28" and have sunset-hues on those 'honeycomb'-like flowers.  

Dahlia Sweet Nathalie.  Via White Flower Farm.  The name says it all.  Described as being a 'delicate blush' color.  


Dahlia Pam Howden.  Via Erin the Impatient Gardener (via her stories) and Floret.   This is a 'waterlily' dahlia.  Also has multi-colors - which I'm drawn to.



Café au Lait Dahlia. This is, I suspect, the MOST POPULAR dahlia on the planet.  And for good reason.  Via Breck's.  It is tall, tho - at 48".  So, that introduces a new variable for me.  

Jowie Winnie Ball Dahlia.  Via Longfield Gardens.   Pink and peach colors.  Right in my sweet spot.  Known for tall stems - which is great for cutting.  

Melody Dora Decorative Dahlia.  Via White Flower Farm.  And...again...Erin Schanen the Impatient Gardener.  She says that it is 'short with stiff stems, quick to flower and keeps pushing out blooms'.  Sounds perfect.

Gallery Series Dahlias.  Like this Gallery Pablo Dahlia.  Via Longfield Gardens.  They're VERY short.  18-20" tall.  In that Peach/Rose/Melon/Yellow family.  There's a lot to like about that.  



The last on my list is Crichton Honey.  But, I can't seem to find the tubers at my normal haunts online.


Location: Downers Grove, IL, USA

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