Dahlia Red

Dahlia ‘Red’ is a timeless garden favourite—bold, vibrant and packed with summer energy. Its blooms open in rich true-red tones, bringing instant impact to borders, patio pots and cutting patches. Red dahlias are brilliant for creating that “wow” moment in the garden, whether you’re going for a hot colour scheme with oranges and yellows, or you want strong contrast against whites, silvers and deep purples.

Flowering from midsummer right through to the first frosts, Dahlia ‘Red’ is also an excellent cut flower. Regular deadheading (or picking) keeps the plant producing fresh blooms for months, so you’ll enjoy colour all season.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Dahlia tubers in spring. For the earliest flowers, start tubers in pots indoors from March to April, then plant out once the risk of frost has passed. If planting directly outside, wait until late spring when the soil has warmed.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny, sheltered position with fertile, well-drained soil. Dahlias are ideal for mixed borders, cutting gardens and patio containers. They love warmth and perform best in full sun.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant tubers about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep, with the old stem (or growing point) facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space plants 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart, depending on the final size.
• Soil Prep: Enrich the planting area with well-rotted compost or manure. In heavy soil, improve drainage with grit.

Watering:
Water after planting. Once shoots appear and growth is underway, keep soil evenly moist, especially in dry spells. Avoid waterlogging. Container-grown Dahlias may need watering daily in hot weather.

Aftercare Tips:

• Pinch out the growing tip once plants are around 30 cm tall to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
• Stake taller stems if needed, especially in exposed borders.
• Deadhead regularly (or cut for the vase) to keep plants flowering until autumn.
• After the first frost blackens the foliage, lift tubers and store dry and frost-free over winter, or protect in the ground with a thick mulch in milder areas.

Top Tip:
Red dahlias look incredible with deep purples and dark foliage—pair with Salvias, bronze-leaved plants or ornamental grasses for a border full of contrast and punch.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

July - October (until first frosts)

Height:
24–36" (60–90cm) (approx. depending on conditions)

Position:
Full sun

Tender Perennial:
Overwinter tubers frost-free in the UK