Dahlia - Dinnerplate Islander

Dahlia – Dinnerplate Islander

Bring vibrant tropical color to your garden with the spectacular blooms of Dinnerplate Islander Dahlia. This stunning variety produces enormous, fully double flowers in brilliant shades of rich pink with soft coral undertones. The lush, layered petals create a dramatic dinnerplate-sized bloom that becomes an instant focal point in garden beds and floral arrangements.

Islander dahlias are known for their impressive flower size and strong stems that support the large blooms. Flowering continuously from mid-summer until the first frost, these plants provide months of vibrant color. Their striking blossoms are highly valued in cutting gardens and are a favorite for bouquets and floral displays, while also attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Plant Details

Plant Type: Flowering Bulb (Tuber)
Flower Color: Bright pink with coral undertones
Bloom Size: Extra-large dinnerplate blooms (8–10 inches or larger)
Plant Height: 36–48 inches
Bloom Time: Mid-summer to first frost
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Uses: Garden beds, borders, cutting gardens, and floral arrangements

Growing Instructions for Zone 3b

Dahlias are not winter hardy in colder climates and should be planted after the danger of frost has passed. In Zone 3b, tubers must be lifted and stored indoors during winter.

Planting Time
Plant tubers outdoors in late spring once the final frost has passed and soil temperatures reach about 60°F (15–16°C).

Location
Choose a location receiving 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily with rich, well-drained soil.

Planting Depth

• Dig a hole 4–6 inches deep.
• Place the tuber horizontally with the growing eye facing upward.
• Cover with soil and water lightly.

Spacing
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow room for the large plants and maintain good airflow.

Watering
Water lightly after planting. Once shoots appear, maintain consistent moisture while avoiding waterlogged soil.

Fertilizing
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and large blooms.

Support

• Because of the large dinnerplate blooms, staking is recommended to prevent stems from bending or breaking.

Overwintering in Zone 3b

• After the first frost blackens the foliage, cut stems back to 4–6 inches.
• Carefully dig up the tubers and allow them to dry for several days.
• Store in peat moss, sawdust, or vermiculite in a cool, dry, frost-free location (40–50°F) until spring.

With proper care, Dinnerplate Islander Dahlias will produce spectacular oversized blooms that bring bold color, dramatic beauty, and tropical flair to summer gardens and stunning floral arrangements.