Dahlia Dreamy ‘Lips’ is a compact, high‑impact dahlia perfect for borders, pots and colourful summer displays. Here’s how to plant, grow and enjoy this stunning variety for months of bold blooms.
What Makes Dahlia Dreamy ‘Lips’ Special?
Dahlia Dreamy ‘Lips’ is part of the Dreamy series, prized for:
- Bright lipstick‑pink petals edged in white
- Dramatic deep purple‑bronze foliage
- A compact habit perfect for pots (40–50cm)
- Non‑stop flowering all summer
- Excellent performance with minimal fuss
Whether you're designing a bold summer container or adding colour to mixed borders, this dahlia guarantees a standout display.
Choosing the Right Planting Location
Full Sun Always Wins
Dahlias thrive on sunshine — aim for 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. More sun = more blooms.
Soil Conditions
- Must be well‑draining
- Enrich with compost or well‑rotted manure
- Light, fertile soil helps produce strong stems and vibrant flowers
How to Plant Dahlia Dreamy ‘Lips’
When to Plant
- Spring, after the last frost has passed
- For Plymouth gardens, typically late April–May
Planting Depth & Spacing
- Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep, eyes facing upwards
- Space plants 18–24 inches apart
- In pots: choose a minimum 30–35cm container
Initial Care
- Water well after planting to settle the soil
- Mulch lightly to protect emerging shoots
Watering and Feeding
Watering
- Keep soil consistently moist, never waterlogged
- Container dahlias may need watering daily in hot weather
Feeding
Use a balanced 10‑10‑10 fertiliser every 4–6 weeks to support strong growth and prolific flowering.
Support & Maintenance
Although compact, Dreamy ‘Lips’ benefits from:
- A small stake or support loop for windy sites
- Regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooms
- Pinching early shoots (optional) to produce a bushier plant
Pests & Disease
Common Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
Fungal Issues
- Avoid overhead watering
- Allow good airflow
- Remove diseased foliage promptly
Cutting & Enjoying Your Blooms
- Cut flowers often to encourage more
- Harvest early in the morning for best vase life
- Use clean, sharp snips and place stems in fresh water immediately
End‑of‑Season Care
After the first frost:
- Cut stems back to 10–15cm
- Lift tubers and dry them
- Store in a cool, dry, frost‑free place
- Replant next spring
If growing in a sheltered Plymouth garden, you may overwinter in the ground with heavy mulch.
Why Gardeners Love Dahlia Dreamy ‘Lips’
This variety offers:
- Long flowering period
- Perfect size for containers
- Low maintenance
- High-impact colour
- Great performance in UK summer conditions
It’s a brilliant choice for small gardens, patios, or any sunny border.
FAQs
Does Dahlia Dreamy ‘Lips’ grow well in pots?
Yes — it’s one of the best compact dahlias for containers.
Is it good for cut flowers?
Absolutely. The blooms last well in a vase and encourage more flowering when cut.
Do I need to lift the tubers every year?
In cold or wet winter areas, yes. In milder gardens, you may overwinter in ground with heavy mulch.
How tall does it grow?
Typically 40–50cm, making it ideal for small spaces.
