August 9th, 2023 Dahlias in Bloom

Dahlias have become as much of a staple in the Cashiers Valley as ferns, moss and buttermilk pie. Since Dr. William Stewart Halsted first cultivated his collection of Dahlias at High Hampton in the early 1900s, they have earned a prominent presence across the plateau and become a guest and member favorite at High Hampton. This season, as High Hampton celebrates over 100 years of welcoming guests from across the globe, the Dahlia Garden is overflowing with more than 600 plants, creating a color-wheel of variety, shapes and sizes and representing decades of dedicated gardening.

As we enjoy the blooms of the 2023 Dahlia season, we asked Head Gardener Drew English a few questions about our prized plants found in the High Hampton Dahlia Garden.

Where was the first High Hampton dahlia garden planted?

The first Dahlia Garden was believed to be near the old “caddy shack” that is the History Center today. The garden was conveniently located near the Halsted’s house (today’s Inn) and easily visible from all around the property.

In some of my research, I’ve found details about the original garden. The pathway leading from the home was planted with a combination of pale blue irises and white peonies. The garden itself was a full acre in size and completely enclosed with a hedge of honey locusts. Imagine the beauty in those waning days of dahlia season, when the honey locust would have begun transforming into a vibrant golden backdrop for the early Autumn rainbow of dahlia blooms. I bet it was stunning!

When do dahlias typically bloom at High Hampton?
Nearly as predictable as the “Frost Moon” in November, Dahlias typically start blooming the last week of July and achieve their peek bloom production throughout August and September. Dahlias bloom best, and most prolifically, on plants that receive consistent pruning and flower cutting. The more you cut, the more they bloom!

How can you extend the life of cut dahlia blooms inside?
Cut your dahlias as early as possible in the day, avoiding the heat and sun of the afternoon. In the early morning, flowers are fully rested from the cooler evening air and are full of moisture. Once you’ve cut them, place the stems to rest in hot water to help them retain the moisture present in the flower. Place them in a vase of clean water and change it often.

Can dahlia tubers be left in the ground for Fall and Winter?
Our tubers are dug, cleaned and stored at the beginning of November after the Autumn frosts have killed back the plants. While it is possible to over-winter dahlias through a mild Winter, the risk is up to the individual gardener. Cold and freezing temperatures are very common in the Cashiers Valley, and frozen ground temperatures can lead to devastation of your tubers and all the growth you worked so hard to achieve. Our tubers at High Hampton are too valuable and storied to risk their loss over a long, cold Winter!