How to grow Dahlia in the UK
Dahlia
Dahlia (Dahlia) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Cut for the vase obsessively — they flower more the more you pick. Cafe au Lait is the cult favourite. This guide covers when and how to sow Dahlia, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Moderate
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Dahlia
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May Plant | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich, free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun, sheltered
- Sowing depth
- 10–15 cm deep (varies by type)
- Spacing
- 45–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Start tubers under cover Apr; plant out after frost
- Growing
- Stake at planting; feed and water well; pinch out tips
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead constantly; lift and store tubers frost-free over winter in cold areas
- Watch for
- Slugs and earwigs love them
Companion planting for Dahlia
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Dahlia this year
Add Dahlia to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Dahlia FAQs
How much sun does Dahlia need?
Dahlia prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Dahlia easy to grow?
Moderate. Cut for the vase obsessively — they flower more the more you pick. Cafe au Lait is the cult favourite.