It's that time of year again, when dahlia wars begin! If you are new to the dahlia world, let me explain. Dahlia wars are when online sales for dahlia tubers open up and people race to go online the second the sale opens to grab their favourite varieties before they sell out.
In the past, most happened in late winter, early spring but with the popularity of dahlias soaring, more and more growers and sellers are opening up their sales earlier. That puts January as the official unofficial start to dahlia wars. But don't worry, if you haven't made your dahlia wishlist yet, because there are still many sales to come, including Edie Rowe's dahlia sale in March 2025.
All our dahlias are grown locally in Mississauga or Caledon, Ontario and we take the upmost care to inspect our dahlias to ensure you have healthy tubers upon arrival. Dahlia tubers will be shipped in late April/early May after the danger of frost has passed.
We have almost 50 tuber varieties available this year including some of my favourites. So if you don't know where to start, check out my list for some must-grow dahlia varieties.
Jowey Winnie
Probably my favourite dahlia because of her gorgeous colouring, beautiful ball shape and prolific blooms. I planted her in my front year as well as in the row gardens this year so I could see her every time I went outside. I just can't get enough!
Cornel Bronze
This standout dahlia captures my heart every fall where I make a huge vase of Cornel Bronze dahlias and bring it with me to work to welcome the changing seasons. I cannot image not growing her. She pumps out blooms and is the perfect unique shade of burnt orange.
Snoho Doris
One of my favourite things about Snoho Doris is the fact that not two are exactly alike. Each bloom can be a different mix of peach, apricot and pink making her an exciting dahlia to grow and watch as the season progresses.
Café au Lait
Stop right now, thank you very much. A blush dinnerplate dahlia to die for. It's my number one asked about flower when I sell my bouquets and it works for every season and occasion.
Ferncliff Rusty
Ferncliff Rusty a moody shade of dark raspberry. She almost glows in the garden. A super popular rusty colour that is on trend for 2025 where antique shades are still having their moment. She also produces loads of blooms.
Salish Twilight Girl
Salish Twilight Girl is a two-toned dahlia with light lilac (almost silver) petals on the front with dark purple on the back. Bred in Canada, she's stolen my heart. You won't regret growing this one.
Rock Run Ashley
I can't imagine a more perfectly coloured dahlia than Rock Run Ashley. If you have to splurge to get one dahlia that was at the high of dahlia wars a few years ago, let it be this one. She takes my breath away every time she shoots out a perfect pink ballet slipper bloom.
Caitlin's Joy
Can you even have a must-grow list without Caitlin's Joy? She is the cheeriest dahlia in a bright pinky-purple and she colour changes as the weather gets colder in the fall. She will give you so many blooms that you will no doubt fill vase after vase. She's hands down a fantastic dahlia.
That's my list!
Honourable mentions also go to:
-Bracken Sarah; for her gorgeous colour, loads of petals and huge bloom size
-Wine Eyed Jill; for being so cute and having a great name to boot
- and Totally Tangerine; for being the cutest shape and shorter dahlia variety
