Some "show" growers grow under cover - using a translucent white fabric to cut down on the intensity of the sun. Quite a few dahlias are affected negatively by to much sun and heat, and their colors can be bleached out. That could be the reason Paul's images from the show have better color. (could be other reasons too)

I actually asked if any of the "show"growers here shaded and don't believe it is a common practice . One person shaded the really dark near black ones. One of the experienced growers told me that growing Dahlias here in Utah is a challenge compared to the Pacific North West. High summer temps and low humidity. Fun discussion......

First of all I'd like to thank all of you for making my want list a LOT longer! You have all posted some beautiful pictures!


I'm new to Dahlias so I'm easily impressed with my blooms! All are new to me this spring, so anything that bloomed is my favorite!

Pooh


Procyon


This one was labeled 'Denny Dennis', but when I google it there's no information on it...



Sorbet



I've had several different looking blooms on 'Twyning Smartie' and only one looked like the picture in the catalog!





And this one is my favorite. I think this one is called 'Valley Porcupine'.

They are all so lovely, Rose. Sometimes they don't look exactly like the online photos and it's due to either genetics, weather, soil, etc.

That last no name is a beauty

I have seen several photos of dahlias being protected by umbrellas attached to their staking poles . Not sure if that is for sun or rain?