Can we collectively take a breath? We made it to June.
The days are long, the iced coffee is flowing, and if you’re anything like us, you’ve spent the last month staring intensely at the dirt waiting for your dahlia tubers to do their thing.
The good news? Most gardens are somewhere between “thriving” and “questioning everything” right now.
We’ve put together a quick mid-season check-in to help you understand what’s completely normal for dahlias this time of year, along with a few common things to keep an eye out for as the season gets rolling.
The “Looking Good, Gorgeous” Check
If your dahlias look like this right now, you are absolutely crushing it:
Bright green, healthy leaves
They should look fresh and vibrant, not limp or heavily discolored. They’re starting to establish their "backbone" for the massive blooms ahead. They should look fresh and happy, not sad and droopy.
Strong main stems
Your dahlias are starting to build the structure that will support all of those summer blooms later on.
Bushy, branching growth
If they’re beginning to fill out and look like tiny shrubs, they’re settling in beautifully. If they are starting to branch out and look like cute mini shrubs, they are thriving.
The “Is This Normal?!” Phase
Not every dahlia garden moves at the same pace, especially in early summer.
Here are a few things that are usually completely normal for mid-June:
Slow growth early on
If your bestie’s dahlias are a foot tall and yours are just peeking through the soil, breathe. Soil temperature matters more than calendar dates. They’ll catch up once the real summer heat hits..If you havent fertilized your dahlias consider a mid-season feeding of our dahlia food specifically made for dahlias. You can apply around the base of plants and work into the soil for a boost! If they haven’t grown an inch in three weeks and look pale yellow, they might be getting drowned. Dahlias hate soggy feet! Check your drainage.
Some lower leaf yellowing
Occasionally, the lowest leaves on the plant may yellow from age, soil contact, or reduced airflow near the base of the plant.
As long as the overall plant looks healthy and continues actively growing, this is often not a major concern.As long as the rest of the plant looks good, just remove those bottom leaves off and move on.
Common Things to Watch For This Time of Year
As temperatures rise and gardens fill in, June is also when growers may begin noticing increased pest and disease pressure.
A few common things to keep an eye out for:
Holes in leaves
Irregular holes or chewed foliage may be caused by common garden pests such as slugs or earwigs, especially on young or tender growth.
Clusters of tiny insects
Small insects gathering on stems or buds are often aphids, which are common in many flower gardens during active growth periods.
White or dusty-looking leaves
If the leaves look like they’ve been dusted with flour, that’s powdery mildew. It loves humid weather. Try only watering the soil around your dahlias, not the leaves.
Good spacing, airflow, and watering practices can all help support healthier plants throughout the season.
A Few June To-Do’s
Stake early
Don’t wait until your plants are leaning sideways during a summer thunderstorm. Adding support early is much easier on both you and the plant.
Water deeply, not constantly
Consistent watering is important, but dahlias generally prefer a deep soak over frequent shallow watering.
Keep checking in
A quick walk through the garden every few days can help you notice changes before they become bigger issues later in the season. Say nice things to them. (Hey, it can’t hurt, right?)
When in Doubt, Use Local Resources
Growing conditions vary dramatically depending on climate, weather patterns, and region.
If you’re dealing with significant pest or disease issues in your garden, your local agricultural extension office or master gardener program can often provide the most accurate recommendations for your specific area.
Final Thoughts
Your dahlias do not need to look perfect to be healthy.
Gardening is a process of learning, adjusting, observing, and sometimes simply being patient while nature catches up.
A few holes in leaves, uneven growth, or minor imperfections are all part of the experience.
You’re growing something beautiful. That counts for a lot.
How are your dahlias looking so far this season? We’d love to see your garden progress. Tag us on social media @russellsmillsflowerco
