Dahlia Display Gardens and Dahlia Shows

Posted by Barbara M. Martin Aug 7, 2006

Depending on where you live, you can see dahlias in bloom from June until the first fall frost. But peak bloom season is typically August and September. So this is the time to get out there and do some visiting and viewing.

Display gardens are really useful for the flower gardener. There is no substitute for seeing a flower growing up close and personal. This is especially informative for gardeners who hope to add to their own collection at home. Seeing the plants in person allows you to see the flower color with your own eyes (as opposed to a catalog description) and it allows you to see how tall/short, bushy/leggy, floriferous/stingy the plant is. It also allows you to compare plants growing in close proximity. You can also compare/contrast the growing conditions with those you have at home in your own garden. And if you are lucky, the display garden's gardener will be available to consult with you.

(If you are new to growing dahlias, take a look at Growing Dahlias and Dahlias for Garden and Vase to get a handle on growing this terrific flower!)

Dahlia shows are informative, too, but in a different way. These orchestrated displays will show you the best of the best on that given day. Again, if you are lucky, there will be experienced dahlia specialists to answer questions and share tips.

It is always important to realize that gardening is a localized endeavor. So finding local sources of information is always paramount. Use these resources to help you become a better gardener, but also to see which cultivars or varieties consistently do well in your local area.

And remember too that good garden performance is not necessarily a match with good performance on the show bench -- so let your own eyes show you the story!

Where to see dahlias:

Open dahlia gardens of North America as maintained by the Colorado Dahlia Society.

Dahlia shows and events listed by state (or by date if you prefer). This listing is also maintained by the good people at the Colorado Dahlia Society.