Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Floret's Current Dahlia Offerings
- The Difference Between Dahlia Seeds and Tubers
- Why Quality Tubers Are Highly Sought After
- Where to Find High-Quality Dahlia Tubers
- Choosing the Best Dahlia Varieties for Your Space
- Success with Dahlias: Getting the Basics Right
- Caring for Dahlias Throughout the Season
- Understanding USDA Zones and Shipping
- How to Handle Your Tubers When They Arrive
- Realistic Expectations for Your Dahlia Garden
- Why Dahlias are Worth the Effort
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
There is nothing quite like the first time you see a dahlia in full bloom. The layers of petals, the vibrant colors, and the sheer size of the flowers can make any gardener feel like a professional. Many people discover this magic through the beautiful photos and stories shared by Floret Flower Farm. It is natural to wonder how you can bring that same beauty into your own backyard and whether you can buy the same tubers they grow.
At Longfield Gardens, we know that finding the right plants is the first step toward a successful season. If you have been searching for dahlia tubers, our dinnerplate dahlias are a great place to start. This guide will clarify what Floret currently offers and help you find high-quality dahlia tubers so you can start your own cutting garden.
For a broader overview of growing these flowers, see All About Dahlias. We will explain the difference between dahlia seeds and tubers, why certain varieties are so sought after, and how to choose the best plants for your space. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced grower, our goal is to make the process of selecting and planting dahlias straightforward and rewarding.
While Floret remains a significant inspiration in the floral world, their focus has shifted toward seeds and education, making it important for gardeners to look to reliable suppliers for their tuber needs.
Understanding Floret's Current Dahlia Offerings
If you are looking to purchase dahlia tubers directly from Floret, the short answer is that it has become much more difficult in recent years. In the past, Floret held large annual tuber sales that were famous in the gardening community. However, as their business has grown and evolved, their focus has shifted.
Today, Floret primarily focuses on breeding new varieties and selling dahlia seeds rather than tubers. They have transitioned into a role of research and education, spending years developing unique "Original Floret" varieties. Because tuber production is incredibly labor-intensive, they now offer their unique genetics mainly through seed packets.
When you plant a dahlia seed, you are essentially creating a brand-new variety. The flowers may look like the parent plant, or they may look completely different. For many gardeners, this element of surprise is exciting. However, if you have your heart set on a specific color or shape—like a classic Cafe au Lait—seeds will not give you that predictable result.
The same is true for a perfect Cornel ball dahlia. When they do offer tubers, the quantities are often very limited. These sales usually happen once a year and can sell out in a matter of minutes. Because demand far exceeds the supply, many gardeners find themselves looking for alternative sources to fill their garden beds.
Key Takeaway: Floret is currently focused on dahlia breeding and seed production. For a guaranteed supply of dahlia tubers for your spring planting, it is best to shop with established bulb and tuber suppliers.
The Shift to Dahlia Seeds
You may see "Floret Dahlia Seeds" available on their website. It is important to understand that growing dahlias from seeds is a very different experience than growing them from tubers. Seeds are the result of pollination, which means each seed is a genetic surprise.
The Difference Between Dahlia Seeds and Tubers
To get the best results in your garden, it helps to understand why the distinction between seeds and tubers matters so much. This is one of the most common areas of confusion for new dahlia enthusiasts.
Growing from Tubers
A dahlia tuber is a starchy root that contains all the energy and genetic information needed to grow a specific plant. Think of it like a potato. If you plant a piece of a Russet potato, you will get more Russet potatoes. For a closer look at tuber anatomy, see Dahlia Tubers: What You Need to Know.
- Predictability: You get the exact color, size, and form you ordered.
- Speed: Tubers have stored energy, so they grow quickly and typically bloom sooner than plants started from seed.
- Reliability: Tubers are generally easier for beginners because the "heavy lifting" of the plant's early development is already done.
Growing from Seeds
Dahlia seeds are often sold in mixes. Because dahlias have complex genetics, the bees do the work of mixing and matching traits in the field.
- Variety: You will get a wide range of colors and shapes from a single packet.
- Cost: Seeds are usually less expensive than tubers.
- Discovery: You might find a unique flower that no one else has in their garden.
If your goal is to recreate a specific look you saw on a flower farm or in a magazine, tubers are the way to go. If you just want a field of colorful flowers and don't mind if some are different than others, seeds can be a fun project.
Why Quality Tubers Are Highly Sought After
You may have noticed that dahlia tubers often sell out quickly across the internet. This is not just a trend; it is a reflection of how dahlias grow and how they are harvested.
Dahlias are not like many other garden seeds that can be produced by the millions in a single season. Each tuber must be grown, dug up by hand or specialized machinery, cleaned, divided, and stored in a temperature-controlled environment through the winter.
Because each mother plant only produces a handful of viable "clones" each year, the supply is naturally limited. This is why high-demand varieties, especially those popularized by famous flower farms, can be hard to find.
At Longfield Gardens, we maintain a trial garden to evaluate how different varieties perform. We look for dahlias that are not only beautiful but also sturdy and productive. This helps us ensure that the tubers we provide will succeed in a variety of home garden conditions across the country.
Where to Find High-Quality Dahlia Tubers
Since Floret focuses mostly on seeds and specialty breeding, where can you find the tubers you need for your garden? There are several ways to source high-quality plants.
Reliable Online Suppliers
Large, established suppliers like us are the most common source for home gardeners. We offer a wide selection of dahlia types, from tiny pompons to massive dinnerplate varieties. When you buy from an established company, you benefit from:
- Quality Guarantees: We stand behind the health and variety of our plants.
- Shipping Expertise: Tubers are perishable. We know how to pack them so they arrive in prime condition.
- Timed Shipping: We ship your order based on your USDA hardiness zone; see our Shipping Information.
Local Dahlia Societies
Many cities have local chapters of the American Dahlia Society. These groups often hold tuber sales in the spring. This is a great way to find varieties that are known to grow well in your specific local climate.
Small Specialty Farms
There are many small flower farms across the United States that sell a portion of their tuber stock each year. These farms often carry rare or "collector" varieties. However, because these are small operations, their inventory is very limited and often sells out months in advance.
Key Takeaway: To ensure you have a beautiful garden full of dahlias, it is best to place an order with a reliable supplier early in the year. This guarantees you get the varieties you want before they sell out.
Choosing the Best Dahlia Varieties for Your Space
Dahlias come in an incredible range of sizes. Choosing the right one depends on where you plan to plant them and how you want to use the flowers.
Dinnerplate Dahlias
These are the giants of the garden. The blooms can reach 8 to 10 inches in diameter or even larger. They are show-stoppers but usually require staking because the flowers are so heavy. They are perfect for the back of a flower bed or as a focal point.
Decorative Dahlias
This is the most common type of dahlia. Decorative dahlias have broad, flat petals that are usually slightly blunt at the tips. They come in almost every color imaginable and are excellent for cutting. Varieties like "Cafe au Lait" fall into this category.
Ball and Pompon Dahlias
If you love perfectly symmetrical shapes, ball dahlias are for you. They produce round, honeycomb-like flowers that are incredibly tough. They have a long vase life, making them a favorite for floral arrangements.
Border Dahlias
Not everyone has room for a 4-foot-tall plant. Border dahlias stay short (usually under 18 inches) and are perfect for containers or the front of a garden path. They produce many small flowers and generally do not need staking.
Success with Dahlias: Getting the Basics Right
You don't need a professional flower farm to grow beautiful dahlias. Success usually comes down to a few simple steps, and 8 Tips for Growing Better Dahlias is a helpful companion. At Longfield Gardens, we believe that gardening should be a rewarding activity, not a stressful chore. If you follow these basics, you will be well on your way to a season of blooms.
Right Plant, Right Place
Dahlias love the sun. They need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day to produce strong stems and plenty of flowers. They also need soil that drains well. If water sits in the spot after a heavy rain, the tubers may rot. If you have heavy clay soil, consider planting in raised beds or adding compost to improve drainage.
Timing is Everything
One of the most common mistakes is planting too early. Dahlia tubers are sensitive to cold. You should wait to plant them until the soil has warmed up to about 60°F and all danger of frost has passed. In most parts of the U.S., this is around the same time you would plant tomatoes or peppers.
Depth and Spacing
Give your dahlias room to breathe. Proper spacing allows air to circulate around the plants, which keeps them healthy and prevents powdery mildew.
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole about 4 to 6 inches deep. Place the tuber horizontally in the hole with the "eye" (the little bump where the sprout will come from) pointing up.
- Spacing: For large varieties, leave about 18 to 24 inches between plants. Smaller border varieties can be planted about 12 inches apart.
Water Correctly, Not Constantly
When you first plant your tubers, do not water them immediately unless the soil is bone-dry. The tuber has enough moisture to get started. Once you see the first green sprouts poking through the soil, you can begin watering regularly. Aim for a deep soaking once or twice a week rather than a light sprinkle every day.
What to do next
- Find a sunny spot in your garden with good drainage.
- Wait for the soil to warm up before planting.
- Space your plants correctly to ensure healthy growth.
- Avoid overwatering until you see green sprouts.
Caring for Dahlias Throughout the Season
Once your dahlias are growing, they are relatively low-maintenance plants. A little bit of attention during the summer will result in a massive harvest of flowers in the fall.
Staking
Most dahlias grow to be 3 or 4 feet tall. Because their stems are hollow and their flowers are heavy, they can tip over in a strong wind or heavy rain. It is easiest to put a stake in the ground at the same time you plant the tuber. As the plant grows, you can gently tie the main stem to the stake using soft twine or garden ties.
Pinching for More Flowers
This sounds a bit scary to new gardeners, but "pinching" your dahlias is the secret to getting more blooms. When the plant is about 12 to 18 inches tall and has several sets of leaves, snip off the very top of the center stem. This encourages the plant to branch out, resulting in a bushier plant with many more flower stems.
Deadheading
The more you cut dahlias, the more they bloom. If you aren't cutting flowers for vases, make sure to remove the old, faded flowers. This tells the plant to keep putting energy into new blooms rather than making seeds. When you deadhead, cut the stem back to a point where you see new buds or leaves forming.
Understanding USDA Zones and Shipping
When you order tubers, timing is the most important factor for success. Because we want your plants to arrive in prime condition, we time our shipping based on the USDA Hardiness Zones. If you are not sure which zone you garden in, our Hardiness Zone Map makes it easy to check.
If you live in a warm climate, like Zone 9, you will receive your tubers earlier in the spring. If you live in a colder climate, like Zone 5, we will wait until the weather has warmed up enough for the tubers to travel safely without freezing.
It is important to remember that weather can be unpredictable. If a sudden cold snap happens, shipping dates might shift slightly. We always send tracking information so you know exactly when your new plants will arrive at your door.
How to Handle Your Tubers When They Arrive
When your package from Longfield Gardens arrives, open it right away. Your tubers have been traveling in a dark box, and they are ready for some fresh air.
Inspecting Your Tubers
Healthy tubers should feel firm, similar to a fresh potato. It is normal for them to have some dry skin or even a bit of surface mold, which can be wiped off. As long as the tuber is firm and has an "eye" or a small sprout, it is ready to grow.
Temporary Storage
If it is still too cold to plant outside when your tubers arrive, you can keep them in a cool, dark, dry place like a basement or a garage. Just make sure they don't freeze. You can also "pot them up" in small containers with some potting soil and keep them in a sunny window or under grow lights to get a head start on the season.
Realistic Expectations for Your Dahlia Garden
Gardening is a partnership with nature. While we provide high-quality tubers and all the advice you need, factors like your local soil, the amount of rain you get, and the temperature of your summer will all affect your results.
Some years, the dahlias will start blooming in July and keep going until the first frost. Other years, a particularly hot summer might slow them down until the cooler days of September arrive. This variability is part of the joy of gardening. Every season is a little bit different, and every bloom is a reward for your patience and care.
If a plant doesn't perform as expected, don't be discouraged. Gardening is a learning process. Often, a small change—like moving a plant to a sunnier spot or adjusting your watering schedule—is all it takes to see success the following year.
Why Dahlias are Worth the Effort
Dahlias offer a level of beauty and variety that few other plants can match. From the tiny, perfect spheres of pompon dahlias to the wild, shaggy petals of cactus varieties, there is something for everyone. They are the crowning glory of the late-summer garden, providing color when many other flowers have started to fade.
By choosing tubers over seeds, you are giving yourself a head start. You are ensuring that the flowers you see in your garden are the ones you fell in love with in the pictures. Whether you want to grow flowers for your kitchen table, for a friend's wedding, or just to enjoy the view from your window, dahlias are a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
While Floret is a wonderful source of inspiration and specialty seeds, they are no longer the primary source for dahlia tubers for most home gardeners. Their focus on breeding and research means their tuber supplies are very limited. However, you can still achieve that stunning flower-farm look by choosing high-quality tubers from a reliable source like us.
At Longfield Gardens, we are here to help you succeed. We provide the plants, the timing, and the support you need to turn your garden into a sea of blooms. Remember that gardening is meant to be enjoyed. Take it one step at a time, get the basics right, and enjoy the process of watching your dahlias grow from a simple tuber into a spectacular display.
- Choose tubers for predictable, high-quality results.
- Wait for warm soil before planting to avoid rot.
- Give your plants plenty of sun and room to grow.
- Enjoy the harvest—the more you cut, the more they bloom!
Growing dahlias is one of the most rewarding experiences a gardener can have. By starting with healthy tubers and following simple planting rules, you can create a professional-looking flower garden in your own backyard.
If you are ready to start your dahlia journey, we invite you to explore our selection and find the varieties that speak to you. With a little bit of sun and some patience, you will have a garden full of stunning blooms before you know it.
FAQ
Does Floret Flower Farm still sell dahlia tubers?
Floret has transitioned its focus primarily toward dahlia breeding, education, and seed production. While they occasionally offer very limited tuber sales, these are rare and typically sell out almost instantly. Most gardeners find it easier to source tubers from established suppliers who can provide a more consistent inventory.
Can I grow the same dahlias Floret grows from seeds?
Floret sells dahlia seeds, but these will not produce an exact copy of the parent flower. Because dahlias have complex genetics, each seed produces a unique plant with its own color and shape. If you want a specific variety that you saw on their farm, you must plant a tuber of that specific named variety.
When is the best time to buy dahlia tubers?
Dahlia tubers are usually available for pre-order in late winter or early spring. It is best to shop early, as popular varieties often sell out by March or April. Most companies, including us, will then ship the tubers to you at the correct time for planting in your specific USDA hardiness zone.
What is the difference between a dahlia tuber and a dahlia seed?
A tuber is a root that acts as a genetic clone of the parent plant, ensuring you get the exact flower variety you purchased. A seed is the result of pollination and will produce a surprise variety that may look different from its parents. Tubers are generally recommended for beginners who want predictable results and faster blooms.