The first dahlia of the season.

Last year was the first

year that I ever grew dahlias.  I planted them with the intention of using them in my son and daughter-in-law's wedding flowers in October. 

Success!  They were beautiful.  For a glimpse at the wedding flowers, click here.

After digging the tubers up and keeping them tucked away in the basement all winter, they are growing!  Budding is one thing but BLOOMING is another!  I lost about five plants during the process.  I'm not exactly sure why but I still consider my dahlia experience as a good one.  I am delighted to see this year's first bloom.

I learned that the more flowers I cut, the more that bloom.  It's difficult sometimes to snip them off of the plant because they are lovely in the garden, but it's well worth it in the end.  I can't wait to see what the rest of the season brings.  I highly recommend growing dahlias!