This article is adapted from a dahlia catalog published in 1900 by W.W. Wilmore, Dahlia Specialist, of Denver, Colorado.
Although the original work is in the public domain, this article has been edited for the modern reader and may contain new material.
This version is Copyright © 2024 by Steve K. Lloyd and may not be reproduced without permission.
Editor’s note: This article discusses gardening techniques which were commonly recommended at the time of original publication. Please note that some of these may no longer be considered best practices for dahlia growers. While this article contains some excellent information, please remember that it was written more than 100 years ago. Consult modern guides before relying on the techniques discussed here.
A Few Facts and Fancies About the Dahlia
This interesting flower derives its name from Dr. Andrew Dahl. a noted Swedish botanist. The wild Dahlia is found in South America, and extends as far north as Mexico. There are but few species, but these have been propagated into a seemingly endless number of varieties of every hue.
Just who should have the honor for first introducing the Dahlia as a domestic flower is a question upon which the authorities differ. But it Is generally conceded that the first collection was sent to Madrid by Baron Humboldt, who was traveling in Mexico.
They were first introduced into England in 1789 by the Marchioness of Bute, but they were grown in France and Spain several years prior to this. This collection, together with another received in 1804, was lost. Another lot was imported in 1815, and from this collection most of the Dahlias of the present time have been propagated. The flowers embrace all colors except blue. In their wild state they are single.
But to speak of the Dahlia of the present: It is wonderful to note the changes, not only in the Dahlia itself, but in the popular attention paid to it.
Especially is this true of some of the new cactus varieties which, with their long twisted or pointed petals, remind me more of a Chrysanthemum than a Dahlia.
However popular this new type may be with some, it is plainly evident that it will not supplant the old show and fancy types.
It should be borne in mind that the Cactus Dahlia is still new, and it is quite probable that many of the weaknesses of the type may yet be eradicated.
The capricious habit of the Dahlia to sometimes freak, and sport, has given rise to some popular delusions concerning them, as for instance drawing color from other plants through the contact of the roots, and making variegated varieties by drawing various colored yarn threads through the roots, etc.
All such beliefs are without foundation in fact. It must be admitted, however, that the laws governing these habits are but little understood.
While the Dahlia is one of the easiest of all flowers to cultivate, it by no means follows that it requires no attention. In fact, no flower that I have ever cultivated will give such a generous response to good cultivation as the Dahlia.
Deep and thorough stirring of the soil during the early growth of the plant is indispensable to success. With poor cultivation or neglect the flowers will rapidly degenerate— become semi-double and faded in color.
The Dahlia, with but few exceptions, should be given an open, sunny situation for at least a portion of each day.
It is a rank feeder and should be given rich soil and kept free from grass and weeds.
Cultivation should cease when the blooms appear. After this a liberal supply of water in dry weather will be all they require.
Plant the tubers two or three feet apart, according to the size and habit of the plant.
Dahlia tubers should be planted about four inches below the surface of the ground, laying the tuber on its side.
Varieties growing above three feet in height should be tied to stakes to prevent falling. Plant about the first of May in this latitude. As soon as the frost has killed the foliage, the roots should be carefully taken from the ground and the soil shaken from among them; they may be stored away In a cool place, not too dry. but secure from frost.
Classification of Dahlias
Dahlias are divided into six general classes, and are amply illustrated on the back of this Catalogue:
Class 1. CACTUS.— This class embraces the long narrow-petaled varieties; the petals of which are generally pointed or twisted.
Class 2. DECORATIVE.— (so called for want of a better name).— This class is an intermediate form, having broad, flat petals, and was formerly classed with the Cactus lists.
Class 3. FANCY.— This class takes in all variegated varieties.
Class 4. POMPONE.— This class embraces the small round Dahlias, the plants of which are generally of a dwarf bushy habit. The lines for this class, however, are not clearly drawn.
Class 5- SHOW.— The name Show generally applies to those varieties producing large, well-formed flowers, showing only solid colors, but may frequently have shaded tips.
Class 6. SINGLE.— Too well known to require a description.
NOTE— There is of necessity more or less overlapping among the classes, and the above rules only apply in general.
List of Dahlia Varieties for Sale in 1900
Please note that this information is provided for historic reference only. We do not have these dahlias for sale. One dollar in 1900 is worth about $35 today.
