Let's talk dahlias! These stunning blooms are not just a wedding favourite; they're like the wonder of floral arrangements, adding a touch of magic to every bouquet and centerpiece. Dahlias are in season from late summer to fall, with 42 species and over 20,000 cultivars!

We love using them for bouquets and wedding decor as their unique colour and shaping add a pop of drama to any arrangement! Checkout some of our favourite dahlia arrangements from weddings and events down below.

If you love dahlias as much as we do and want to grow your own, here are some tips and tricks!

1. Start small: Begin with smaller dahlia varieties like pompoms for easier care and blending into your garden's aesthetic.

2. Group in threes: Plant at least three of each variety for a harmonious look.

3. Choose the right spot: Opt for tubs, beds, or a dedicated dahlia bed for optimal growth.

4. Keep it simple: Limit the number of varieties for a balanced garden.

5. Plan for early blooms: Pre-plant dahlias indoors for earlier blossoms.

1. Cut the stem of the dahlias diagonally and remove any leaves that may end up in or touching the water, and place in a vase with fresh water.

2. Change the vase water every day or two.

3. When changing the water, remove the stems, run them under cold water to wash off any slime, and recut the ends.

4. Rinse out the vase, fill it with fresh water, and place the dahlias back in.

These tips will ensure your dahlias last a long and healthy life!

We love dahlias not only for their symbolic significance but also for the sheer joy they bring through their variety of colours. From vibrant pinks to rich purples and sunny yellows, the wide array of dahlia hues makes designing with them an absolute delight!

Their short vase life makes them ideal as "Event Flowers," ensuring they look their best for the occasion, making them perfect for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and many other events. 

At Flowers by Janie, Petra's Wedding and Wizard of Oz are the most popular dahlias because white and pink are highly sought after for wedding colours. We typically use ball or pompom dahlias because they hold up better than larger varieties such as dinner plate dahlias!

Fun fact, one of Janie's favourite dahlias is called Labyrinth (pictured in the photos taken by Corrina Walker below)!

Originating in North America, dahlias are the national flower of Mexico and were first recorded there in 1615. Before insulin existed, the tubers of dahlias were used to balance blood sugar due to their high fructose content! Also, the petals were used to treat dry skin, rashes, infection, and even insect bites.

Did you know, dating back to the Victorian era, dahlias symbolize commitment and enduring love, embodying inner strength, creativity, and elegance? Another fun fact, dahlias, just like roses and peonies, don't come in the colour blue!

We had such a delightful time hosting our annual Dahlias + Donuts Floral Workshop again this year! 

Attendees joined us for an in-person workshop at Studio Vic Park on September 12th to design with beautiful dahlia varieties and seasonal florals from Janie's own garden! These arrangements were paired with delicious donuts from Pretty Sweet Bakery.

Thank you so much to everyone who attended! A portion from every ticket bought was donated to the Calgary Food Bank.

Checkout a recap of the workshop below!

It's that time of the year again... the holiday season is approaching swiftly, and we have just the workshop for you. Sign up for our Winter Wreath Workshops on Friday, November 29th, 2024 OR Monday December 2, 2024 where we'll be designing Christmas wreaths in full lush and grapevine styles!

Checkout some Christmas wreaths that we previously designed down below!

Photography Credits:

Genevieve Renee Photography | Corrina Walker Photography | Tara Whittaker Photography | Justine Milton Photography | Kaity Body Photography | Star Mercer Photography | Mackenzie Kelly Photography