Efficient Dahlia Growing: Sustainable Strategies from the Flower Farmer Forum

Dahlias are one of the most beloved blooms in the cut flower world — and for good reason. Their vibrant colors, intricate petal structures, and long vase life make them a favorite for florists and flower lovers alike. But growing dahlias, especially at scale, can feel overwhelming. In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum, I share my personal approach to dahlia growing here in Minnesota and the techniques that have helped me improve efficiency, reduce physical strain, and grow healthier plants season after season.

Simplifying Dahlia Planting

When I first started growing dahlias, I felt like I needed to follow every traditional step exactly — digging deep holes, perfectly spacing each tuber, and over-complicating the setup. Over time, I realized that streamlining my planting process didn’t just save time — it also saved my back! Using trenches instead of individual holes has completely changed how I plant. It’s faster, easier on the body, and still yields excellent results.

Soil Health First

Healthy dahlias start with healthy soil. I’ve made it a priority to build soil quality using compost, cover crops, and regular soil testing. Every year, I learn a little more about what my soil needs to support strong dahlia growth. One of the biggest improvements came from integrating cover crops into my off-season plan — they help with weed suppression, increase organic matter, and promote better drainage.

Supporting the Blooms

In Minnesota, strong summer storms are part of life, and dahlias don’t always hold up well to gusty winds. That’s why staking is essential. Whether you use netting, T-posts, or another method, having a reliable staking system in place helps prevent damage and reduces the risk of plants snapping mid-season.

Extending the Season

One of the best investments I’ve made in my flower farm is my high tunnel. It not only allows me to start dahlias earlier in the spring but also keeps them blooming well into the fall. High tunnels help manage temperature, moisture, and wind exposure — all key factors for healthy dahlia production.

Tuber Storage Tips

After the growing season, storing dahlia tubers properly is critical. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that moisture control and temperature consistency are the biggest factors in preventing rot. I now use a tried-and-true method that involves labeling, cleaning, and storing tubers in vermiculite or peat moss in bins in a cool, dark space.

The Power of Community

One of the most rewarding parts of my flower farming journey has been connecting with other growers. Whether it’s swapping tubers, sharing planting tips, or just encouraging each other through the ups and downs of the season, community support has been a game-changer. It’s incredible how much we can grow — both personally and professionally — when we learn from each other.

Sustainable Practices, Long-Term Success

At the end of the day, efficient flower farming isn’t just about saving time. It’s about sustainability. From improving soil health to streamlining planting and leaning into community connections, the decisions we make today impact the future of our farms and the planet.

If you’re growing dahlias — whether it’s 10 plants or 1,000 — I hope these insights help you find ways to simplify, strengthen, and sustain your practices.

Listen to the full episode on the Flower Farmer Forum Podcast for more tips and stories from my dahlia journey.