Dahlia 'Otto's Thrill' Bulbs

Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit

'Otto's Thrill' is a classic dinnerplate dahlia that's been loved for decades by gardeners and flower enthusiasts. Growing 36 to 48 inches tall, this gorgeous plant blooms from late summer to early fall, often lasting until the first frost in perfect conditions. Its massive 8- to 10-inch double flowers are a soft pink delight, with broad petals arranged symmetrically for a polished, romantic look. These blooms are ideal for cutting—perfect for bold monofloral bouquets or a striking addition to mixed arrangements. Harvest them when nearly open to enjoy their full beauty, and the more you cut, the more they'll bloom!

The 'Otto's Thrill' dahlia is a tender perennial (Zones 9-11) with an upright, clump-forming habit. It thrives in garden beds, borders, or large containers and is an absolute must-have in any cutting garden. With tall stems and substantial blooms, this plant benefits from staking or caging to keep it standing tall and looking its best.

These dahlias are easy to grow, thriving in sunny spots with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay or very sandy, amend it with organic materials like peat moss to improve its structure and water retention. Water thoroughly at planting and consistently during the growing season, ensuring the roots stay hydrated but not waterlogged. Pinch stems back at 8 to 10 inches tall and prune taller stems for bushier plants with more blooms. Fertilize in spring and late summer, apply mulch to keep the soil cool, and divide tubers in the fall for years of gorgeous blooms.

Plant 'Otto's Thrill' tubers outdoors in warm spring soil after frost danger has passed, spacing them 18 to 24 inches apart and planting them 3 inches deep. For a head start, plant tubers indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost in small pots with potting soil. Transplant them outdoors when the risk of frost has passed.

NOTE: In Zones 3-7, lift tubersbefore frost and store them in dry peat moss or vermiculite at 50°F. Grow as an annual for vibrant, showstopping blooms in any zone.