An armload of Dahlia BJ's Rival

Dahlia ‘BJ’s Rival’

Description

This novelty displays one of the best color combinations and flower shapes we’ve seen. Plants are smothered in fluffy, two-toned raspberry-and-gold blooms that remind us of echinaceas. Though the flowers have a delicate appearance, they hold up well in weather.

Details

Form: anemone
Bloom size: 3 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 80 to 100 days
Plant spacing: 12 to 18 in
Pinch: when 12 in tall

Harvesting/Vase Life

Dahlias don’t unfurl much once they’ve been harvested so it’s important to not pick them too early. Harvest when blooms are three-quarters of the way open, but not overly ripe. Check the back of each flower head, looking for firm and lush petals versus papery or slightly dehydrated ones. Place into water with hydrator, or sear stem ends by placing into 160°F to 180°F (just off boiling) water and allow to cool for one hour. Expect a vase life of 5 days.

Details

Description

This novelty displays one of the best color combinations and flower shapes we’ve seen. Plants are smothered in fluffy, two-toned raspberry-and-gold blooms that remind us of echinaceas. Though the flowers have a delicate appearance, they hold up well in weather.

Details

Form: anemone
Bloom size: 3 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 80 to 100 days
Plant spacing: 12 to 18 in
Pinch: when 12 in tall

Harvesting/Vase Life

Dahlias don’t unfurl much once they’ve been harvested so it’s important to not pick them too early. Harvest when blooms are three-quarters of the way open, but not overly ripe. Check the back of each flower head, looking for firm and lush petals versus papery or slightly dehydrated ones. Place into water with hydrator, or sear stem ends by placing into 160°F to 180°F (just off boiling) water and allow to cool for one hour. Expect a vase life of 5 days.

Sources

How to Grow

Winter Mini Course: Seed-Starting 101

Learn how to start flowers from seed in this three-part video series

In our upcoming Winter Mini Course, you’ll learn everything you need to know to successfully start flowers from seed, including all of the necessary supplies, step-by-step instructions, special tips and tricks, and how to create a simple indoor seed-starting area.