TOPPING, PRUNING & TRAINING DAHLIAS

As the dahlia first starts developing, it will produce 4 sets of leaves. Pinching off the top of the plant above the fourth set of leaves will encourage branching. This results in a fuller plant and will reward you with more flowers.

Pruning Dahlias

Insert canes when planting and tie in the new growth as it develops pinching out with the advice given above. If your desired look is to achieve big blooms then sacrifice 3-5 of the flowering stems per plant. If you have smaller bloom types allow 7-10 blooms per plant. Water and feed in regulation to the sunshine, heat and rainfall in your local area (the more sun and heat, the more watering and weekly feeding is necessary.)

Please note: Do not feed with a high nitrogen feed.