When I lived in Iowa, I used to grow great Dahlias. I moved here to Texas many years ago and my instinct is that they will not do well here. I have been proved wrong on other species- they will, in fact, grow here. So, any Texas growers of Dahlias out there? Well, guess you do not have to be in Texas! How about zone 8 deep South?

I hope your fellow Texans reply but I'm sure you can grow them there. Are they being sold in stores like Home Depot, Walmart, Lowe's? If so, that should mean they do grow in your area.

Pirl- unfortunately, we can't count on our big box stores to carry varieties that grow well for us. Dave and I fuss about this *constantly*.

Tim- Dalias melt for me, and I don't know anyone else who has had success growing them. However, I know Dave's grandma grew them in Florida (go figure). I don't have a full shade area, but that's the only way I'd try the again. I miss the as well- such great flowers!!

Sorry to hear that, Trish.

Trish is so right. It seems like all the national chains must oder in huge lots two years in advance, and distribute with no consideration of zone or if something will survive. They are cleless !

Dahlias are natives of Mexico, so they love warmth and sun. But not al of Mexico is so hot. That might be the problem. In the Valley o Texas, which is zone 9 or 10, depending on the year they are loved, but when I worked at a nursery, they were sold as, and treated as, annuals.

Afterthought: I have seen dahlia bulbs @ Ho Depo... if you would like to grow a sacrificial dahlia as an experiment.

... if you would like to grow a sacrificial dahlia as an experiment.

I *love* the term sacrificial dahlia. Having a sacrificial plant sounds so much better than I killed another one!

My son grows them here in Austin, TX. I am currently visiting...