Mid-May on the Farm
Growing Dahlias in the South: Why It’s Not Too Late to Plant
If you think you missed dahlia planting season, you may actually be arriving at exactly the right time for Southern gardens. For much of the country, dahlias are planted in early spring for summer blooms. But here in the South, our growing season — and our heat — changes the equation.
Thanks to all who came out for our recent plant sale and Dahlia Workshop. It was such a joy to see so many gardeners excited about growing flowers again this season.
Over the past few weeks, our focus at the farm has shifted heavily toward the dahlias, which are just on the verge of their spring bloom. If you planted dahlias last year and left them in the ground, you may be close to seeing blooms as well.
In fact, planting dahlias between mid-May and mid-June often works beautifully for fall flowers in our region.
At the farm, we regularly continue planting through June, especially newer varieties and those we primarily want blooming in fall. Some of our favorite bouquets of the entire season come in September and October, when cooler nights begin to return and the plants settle into their stride.
Why Southern Dahlia Timing Is Different
Dahlias love warmth, but they do not always love intense Southern summer stress.
When planted later in spring, tubers establish themselves as soil temperatures rise and then mature into bloom just as late summer begins to soften into fall. Instead of peaking during the hottest part of the year, many varieties begin producing heavily as temperatures moderate.
The result:
Stronger fall flushes
Richer color
Longer harvest windows
Beautiful blooms at a time when many summer flowers begin to fade
There is something especially magical about walking into the garden in October and finding armloads of dahlias waiting for you.
What to Expect When Planting in Late Spring
First Few Weeks
Tubers focus on root growth and establishing strong plants. You may not see dramatic top growth immediately, especially if weather fluctuates.
Early to Mid Summer
Plants begin putting on height and branching. Consistent watering becomes increasingly important as temperatures rise.
Late Summer
This is often when things begin to get exciting. Buds form, stems lengthen, and plants transition into bloom production.
Fall Garden Magic
As nights cool slightly, dahlias often become even more productive. Colors deepen, stems improve, and the garden takes on a richness that feels entirely different from spring.
For many Southern gardeners, this becomes the moment dahlias finally “click.”
A Few Southern Growing Tips
Give Them Sun
Dahlias still need plenty of sunlight, even in the South. Morning sun with some protection from intense late afternoon heat can be helpful in especially hot locations.
Water Consistently
Deep, consistent watering is more beneficial than frequent shallow watering.
Mulch Helps
Mulch moderates soil temperature and helps conserve moisture during summer heat.
Don’t Panic in July
There may be periods during extreme heat when plants seem slower or stressed. This is normal in Southern gardens. Many dahlias rebound beautifully as conditions improve.
The Fall Garden Is Worth Waiting For
October 2025 at the farm
While many people associate flowers with spring, some of the most beautiful cutting garden moments happen later in the year — warm golden light, cooler mornings, richer colors, and bouquets gathered while much of the garden is beginning to wind down.
Dahlias thrive in that moment.
And if you haven’t planted yet, you may actually be arriving at exactly the right time.
Our Dahlia Tuber Sale
We currently have dahlia tubers available for:
Farm pickup
Local delivery
Shipping
Based on your feedback during the plant sale, we’ve also added several curated dahlia collections to the website to make choosing varieties easier. These collections were designed to bloom beautifully together in Southern fall gardens.
Whether you’re planting your first dahlia or adding to an established garden, there is still time to grow something beautiful this season.
We wish you an abundant flower garden!
Linda