Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-2.5 Feet

Mature Spread

1.5-2 Feet

Growing Zones

8 to 10

Cloudy Sky Dahlia Bulbs

Bring soft, painterly color to your garden with Cloudy Sky Dahlias. These showy tubers produce large, layered blooms in shades of bright pink, pale pink, and white that blend into a gentle ombré. They work beautifully in flower beds, borders, and large containers — or cut for long-lasting bouquets.

Highlights

• Big, multi-layered flowers: Large blooms that draw the eye and create a garden focal point.
• Beginner-friendly: Straightforward to grow when planted after frost in warm, well-drained soil.
• Excellent for cutting: Stems hold up well in arrangements and extend enjoyment indoors.
• Long season of interest: Flowers from summer until the first hard frost.

Planting Guide

• When to plant: Wait until after the last frost and soil has warmed (around 60°F / 15°C).
• Where to plant: Choose a spot that receives 6–8 hours of sun daily and drains well.
• Soil prep: Loosen soil to about 12 inches deep and work in compost or well-rotted organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
• Planting depth: Set the tuber horizontally 1–2 inches below the surface with the eye (growing point) facing up.
• Spacing: Allow 18–24 inches between plants so each clump has room to develop.
• Staking at planting: Place a support stake when you plant to avoid disturbing tubers later, especially for taller varieties.

Ongoing Care

• Watering: Water after planting, then wait until shoots appear. Once growing, water deeply about 1–2 times per week, letting the topsoil dry slightly between waterings.
• Feeding: Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer (for example, a 5-10-10) every 3–4 weeks after plants reach 6–12 inches tall. Too much nitrogen encourages foliage at the expense of blooms.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms throughout the season.
• Support: Tie stems to stakes as needed to prevent bending or breakage in wind and rain.
• End of season: After the first frost blackens foliage, lift tubers for winter storage in colder climates (see FAQ for storage tips).

Growing in Containers

• Pot size: Choose containers at least 12–16 inches wide with drainage holes.
• Potting mix: Use a well-draining potting mix and avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
• Planting: Plant tubers at the same shallow depth as in-ground (1–2 inches) and give each tuber room to form a clump.
• Care tips: Container plants may need more frequent watering and feeding than in-ground plants and can dry out faster on hot patios.

FAQ

1. What growing conditions do Cloudy Sky Dahlias need?

Answer: They prefer full sun (6–8 hours daily), warm soil, and good drainage. Plant after the last frost and avoid waterlogged spots to reduce the risk of rot.

2. How tall do these dahlias grow and are they good for containers?

Answer: Expect plants around 2–2.5 feet tall. They perform well in garden beds and make excellent container specimens when given a roomy pot (12–18 inches) and regular care.

3. What is the best watering and feeding routine?

Answer: Water deeply once shoots appear and maintain a schedule of about 1–2 deep waterings per week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between. Feed with a low-nitrogen fertilizer every 3–4 weeks once plants are established.

4. Can I store the tubers over winter?

Answer: Yes. After the first frost blackens foliage, dig up the tubers, brush off excess soil, and dry for a few days. Store them in a cool (40–50°F / 4–10°C), dry place in slightly damp peat moss or sand. Check periodically to prevent shriveling or rot.

5. Are these dahlias good for cutting and how long do blooms last in a vase?

Answer: Absolutely — they make lovely cut flowers. For best vase life, harvest stems in the morning when blooms are open, recut stems under water, and change the water every couple of days; expect stems to last around 7–10 days with good care.