Planting My First Dahlia Seedlings

There’s something truly special about that first planting of the season, especially when it’s something as magical as dahlias. This week, I tucked my very first dahlia seedlings into the soil, and I couldn’t be more excited to see what unfolds in the months ahead.

I picked up these little green beauties from a local flower grower right here in Orting, Washington. She’s well-known in the area for her dahlia collection, and while she couldn’t tell me exactly what types these seedlings would turn out to be, I think that makes it even better. There’s a bit of mystery in the mix — like a floral surprise waiting to bloom.

I hand tilled the section to get the first seedlings into the ground since we have (most likely) got our last frost. With the mornings going no lower than 40 degrees, I decided to plant the first 4 in the garden yesterday evening to do a trial run.

Planting dahlias from seedlings is a little different than starting from tubers, but I’m up for the adventure. The plants were strong and healthy when I got them, and I’ve made sure to give them a good start in well-prepped soil with lots of compost mixed in. I’ve spaced them out to give them room to grow, knowing how bushy and bold dahlias can become by mid-summer.

Here’s the real joy: not knowing exactly what’s going to come up. Will they be soft blush pinks or bold fiery reds? Maybe something totally unexpected. Each flower will feel like a little gift.

As a flower grower, I’ve learned that sometimes the best part of the garden is the anticipation — those quiet, hopeful moments before the blooms arrive. I’ll be keeping a close eye on these new additions as they settle in, and I’ll definitely be sharing updates as they grow and start to show their true colors.

I created some circles around each Dahlia to make known where they are located.

Stay tuned for the first blooms — and if you’re growing mystery dahlias too, I’d love to hear about it!