Growing Non-GMO Thomas A. Edison Dahlia Bulbs/Tubers

The Thomas Edison Dahlia is primarily grown outdoors as a garden plant, though it can thrive in large containers on patios. It is unsuitable for indoor growth due to its size and light requirements, but may be started 4-6 weeks early indoors in zones 3-7. Transplant after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F. Dahlias are sensitive to frost.

Plant the tubers so they are covered with 1-2 inches of soil and the growing bud is facing upward. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation, which helps prevent diseases like powdery mildew. Dahlias prefer rich, well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0-7.0). Amending the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting improves drainage and provides essential nutrients. A balanced 5-5-5 fertilizer may also be included at the time of planting. They require full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce their signature large, velvety blooms.

To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the growing season. This prevents the plant from diverting energy and promotes new flower growth. Pinching once the plants reach 12 inches tall can also encourage larger and more numerous blooms. Dahlias benefit from regular fertilization for optimal health and vigorous blooms. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer every 3-4 weeks once the plants are established. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers. The last fertilizer application should occur in early September as the tubers store nutrients for the coming season. Water deeply 1-2 times per week, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy. Watering frequency may vary due to different climate factors in your area. The top 1 inch of soil should dry between watering. Dahlias do not tolerate drought. Good drainage is crucial to avoid tuber rot.

Stake taller varieties like Thomas Edison early in the season to prevent stems from breaking under the weight of the large blooms. In zones 8-10, mulching around the base can protect the tubers and improve perennial performance by keeping the roots cooler. In zones 3-7, dig up the tubers (lift) after the first frost, clean, dry, and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free location until spring.

Thomas A. Edison Dahlia Tubers in the Flower Garden

The Thomas Edison Dahlia is a versatile and dramatic flower often used as a focal point in garden beds or borders due to its tall stature (3-4 feet) and large, velvety purple blooms. It also works beautifully in mass plantings for a striking display of color. While not particularly fragrant, its visual impact more than compensates, and its blooms are a favorite for cut flower arrangements, lasting well in vases. Dahlias attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Harvesting Thomas A. Edison Dahlia Tubers

The Thomas Edison Dahlia is primarily used as a cut flower, thanks to its large purple blooms that make a statement in floral arrangements. To ensure the longest vase life, harvest the flowers early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Choose blooms that are fully open but not overly mature, as dahlias do not continue to open after being cut. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems at an angle, preferably leaving as much stem as is available for arrangement flexibility. Place the cut flowers immediately into a bucket of lukewarm water with flower preservative to prevent wilting.

Floral Arranging Tips for Dahlias: Remove any foliage that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean and bacteria-free. Due to the weight of the large blooms, support structures like floral frogs or grids in vases can help maintain the arrangement’s shape. Dahlias pair beautifully with complementary flowers like roses, zinnias, and greenery, adding elegance and drama to bouquets.

About Thomas A. Edison Dahlia Tubers

This dahlia can be referred to as “Thomas Edison” or “Thomas A Edison.”

A dinner plate dahlia is a type of dahlia known for its exceptionally large blooms, often spanning 8 to 10 inches or more in diameter, resembling the size of a dinner plate. This cultivar is known to grow medium large blooms that span 6-8 inches. These dramatic, show-stopping flowers are highly desired for their striking beauty and ability to serve as focal points in gardens and floral arrangements.

While the flowers are not typically consumed, the tubers are edible, a characteristic shared by all dahlias. These tubers are not recommended for consumption. The stems and foliage are not edible and should not be ingested. It’s important to note that dahlias are toxic to pets, including cats, dogs, and horses, and can cause symptoms like vomiting or skin irritation if consumed.

The Thomas Edison Dahlia is highly regarded as one of the most popular cultivars for its dramatic 6-8 inch blooms, which are a favorite among gardeners for their bold color and size.

Dahlias pair quite well with other full-sun annuals and perennials that complement the vibrant blooms. Some great options include sunflowers, cosmos, roses, gladiolus, dusty miller, sweet alyssum, hostas, and basil.

The Thomas A. Edison Dinnerplate Dahlia is a cultivar introduced in 1929. It was named with the approval of the famous inventor Thomas Edison, as noted in the L.L. Olds catalog of 1939. The hybridizer is credited to Dahliadel. This variety was developed to showcase its rich, deep purple blooms, which have made it a standout among dahlia enthusiasts and gardeners.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Dahlias are easily some of the most dazzling and loved blooms in all gardens and flower arrangements. They are a surefire way to make a statement of beauty!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Thomas A. Edison Dahlia Bulbs Per Package:

• 2 Dahlia Tubers

Non-GMO Thomas A. Edison Dahlia Bulbs are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.