Dahlia variabilis showpiece double mix

20 Seeds

🌱 Seeding Guide for Dahlia variabilis 'Showpiece Double Mix'

1. When to Start

• Indoors: Start 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost date.

• Outdoors: Optional in zones 8–11, only after frost danger has passed and soil has warmed.

2. What You’ll Need

• Seed trays or small pots

• Sterile seed-starting mix (light, well-draining)

• Seeds of Dahlia variabilis 'Showpiece Double Mix'

• Humidity dome or clear plastic wrap (optional)

• Spray bottle or gentle watering can

• Grow lights or a bright window

3. Sowing Instructions

1. Moisten the seed-starting mix before filling trays or pots.

2. Sow seeds on the surface. Do not bury deeply—light helps germination.

   • Press lightly into the soil or cover with a very thin layer of vermiculite or fine mix.

3. Mist the surface gently to settle the seeds.

4. Cover with a dome or plastic wrap to maintain humidity.

4. Germination Conditions

• Temperature: 20–22°C (68–72°F)

• Light: 12–16 hours of light daily (use grow lights if needed)

• Moisture: Keep soil moist but never soggy

• Germination time: 7–14 days

5. After Germination

• Remove cover once sprouts appear.

• Keep seedlings under bright light to prevent stretching.

• Once they have 2–3 sets of true leaves, transplant to 3–4 inch pots.

• Start feeding every 10–14 days with a diluted balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10).

6. Hardening Off

• Begin 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors.

• Gradually expose plants to outdoor conditions (wind, sunlight, cooler temps).

7. Transplanting Outdoors

• Transplant after last frost, when soil is warm and nights are consistently above 10°C (50°F).

• Sun: Full sun (6+ hours daily)

• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart

• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost

• Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

🌼 Bloom Time & Care

• First blooms: ~70–90 days from sowing

• Deadhead regularly to promote continuous flowering

• Stake if stems get tall or floppy