Delectable Dahlias
May 19, 2009 by Sandy Mitchell
Filed under Gardening
Dahlias are the darling of the summer bulb set. These showy, colorful flowers make their appearance mid-summer and dazzle gardeners until early fall. How much do you know about these beautiful specimens? Here are a few facts about Dahlias:
* There are 30 species of Dahlias and more than 20,000 cultivars.
* Dahlias originated in Mexico, but became popular when the plant were imported to Holland in the late 19th century.
* The Aztec culture used Dahlias for food, decorations, and in their ceremonies.
* The Dahlia is named after Anders Dahl, an 18th century Swedish botanist.
* Dahlias thrive in full sun and in well-drained soil.
* Plant Dahlias after the threat of frost has past.
* Dahlias grow from tubers and must be dug up and stored in straw or peat over the winter in areas where the ground freezes.
* Most dahlias require staking as they can grow as tall as 6-8′.
(photo credit: Jan Mehlich)
