Encyclopedia of Dahlias

Known for their bright colors and dramatic forms, dahlias are enjoying a surge of popularity in today's gardens. From "pompons" to "waterlilies" few flowers can boast such a variety of choices for every garden and gardener. In this delightful and profusely illustrated encyclopedia, noted hybridizer and nurseryman Bill McClaren provides an authoritative account of garden-worthy dahlias for every garden design. Nearly 700 selections are included, complete with notes on their history, awards, and cultural peculiarities. Additional chapters on dahlia care and propagation, dahlia species in nature, hybridizing, and showing dahlias add to this well-rounded overview. Thorough appendices with resources on dahlia societies, nurseries, and gardens complete the book. Gardeners at every level will appreciate the author's clear and useful explanation of the classification schemes for dahlias, which can often intimidate even determined enthusiasts. Every dahlia lover will gain years of reference and enjoyment from Bill McClaren's definitive encyclopedia.

Media reviews of this book:

"Draws on McClaren's 50 years of experience in growing dahlias."

—Valerie Sudol, Newark Star-Ledger, September 9, 2004

"In addition to being a mine of information it is attractively presented and most generously illustrated."

—John Grimshaw, Herbertia, September 2005

"After reading this book, I may have to dig a new bed just for the varieties I know I have to have! Another terrific encyclopedic reference for your gardening library."

—Mary Ann Newcomer, Garden Themes, Summer 2005

"An excellent read about using dahlias for any garden size, whether a single pot on a patio or an acre of land."

—Thomas Mickey, Brockton Enterprise, September 8, 2005

"A must have book for anyone interested in growing dahlias."

—Adele Kleine, Current Books on Gardening & Botany, August 2005

Customer reviews of this book:

"Stunning graphics! More information than I could imagine about the subject."

—Jeanie R. from Ft. Wayne, Indiana, October 18, 2007

"Fantastic. Beautiful display."

—Dianne K. from Chesaning, Michigan, September 19, 2005

"Fantastic, beautiful display. Great!"

—Dianne K. from Chesaning, Michigan, September 15, 2005

"Beautiful book with lovely pictures and useful clear information on propagating and growing dahlias."

—Danielle L. from Owls Head, Maine, September 12, 2005

"Beautiful book with lovely pictures and useful, clear information on propagating and growing dahlias."

—Daniell L. from Owls Head, Maine, September 12, 2005

Read more media and customer reviews

An excerpt from this book:

A major factor in growing dahlias successfully is the treatment of the tubers. Tubers that are grown, dug, and stored properly will produce healthy, vigorous plants when replanted. After the dahlia plant has completed its full growth cycle, it goes dormant. In warm climates the dormancy period can be as short as a few months, and tubers may be left in the ground. In areas where the ground freezes the tubers need to be dug and stored. Dahlia growers often find it difficult to keep tubers viable during long storage. Understanding the correct methods of caring for tubers can simplify the task ...

Read the whole excerpt