A specialty mix, Splendid Festival Blend contains 2 unique dahlia varieties: 'Holland Festival' and 'Neon Splendor'. Growing 36 to 60 inches tall, these dinnerplate dahlias bloom from late summer to early fall, often lasting until the first frost in favorable conditions. The bright orange hues of these varieties complement each other beautifully, creating a lively and harmonious display in the garden or vase. Dahlias are known for their prolific blooming, and the more flowers you cut, the more blooms they produce. Harvest the flowers when they're almost fully open, as they won't continue to open much after cutting.
Dahlia Splendid Festival Blend varieties are tender perennials in Zones 9-11, with a clump-forming, upright habit that makes them ideal for grouping or mass planting in garden beds and borders. They also work beautifully as container accents. These tall plants are quintessential cottage garden favorites and essential for cutting gardens. Staking or caging may be necessary to support their large blooms and prevent stems from bending.
These dahlias are easy to grow and thrive in sunny locations with rich, well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with organic materials like peat moss or bark to improve drainage and moisture retention. Water thoroughly at planting and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season, ensuring the roots are hydrated but not waterlogged. Pinch back plants at 8 to 10 inches tall, trim taller stems, and fertilize in early spring and late summer for lush growth and abundant flowers. Mulch to keep the soil cool and moist, and divide tubers in the fall for future growth.
Plant tubers outdoors in warm spring soil after the danger of frost has passed, spacing them 24 to 36 inches apart and planting 3 inches deep. For a head start, plant tubers indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date in small pots filled with potting mix, and transplant outdoors once frost danger has passed.
NOTE: In Zones 3-7, lift and store tubers indoors before frost in dry peat moss or vermiculite at 50°F. Grow Splendid Festival Blend as annuals for bold seasonal color in any garden.
