Dahlia 'Pompone Double Mixed' Seeds

Dahlia × hortensis 'Pompone Double Mixed' is a robust Half-Hardy Perennial (H2), typically grown as a high-performance annual. The "Pompone" or "Pompon" classification refers to the perfectly spherical flower form, with quilled petals arranged in a precise, mathematical honeycomb pattern that provides unmatched geometric structure in the border.

The "Ball" Aesthetic: Unlike the giant "dinnerplate" varieties, Pompone Dahlias produce smaller, perfectly proportioned blooms (approx. 5-8cm across). This makes them incredibly versatile for both detailed garden design and intricate floral work, where their structural symmetry adds a professional finish to any arrangement.

Building a Tuber Collection: While these Dahlias flower reliably in their first year from seed, they will still develop significant underground tubers by the end of the season. If you find a particular colour or form you love, the tubers can be lifted and stored frost-free over winter, making seed-growing a remarkably economical way to build an elite perennial collection.

Dahlias are fast-growing and among the most rewarding plants to raise from seed, typically reaching maturity in just one season.

How to Sow:
Sow indoors from February to April. Sow the seeds 0.5cm deep into trays of moist seed compost. Maintain a consistent temperature of 15-20°C. Germination is usually rapid, occurring within 14-21 days. When seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots, always handling them by the leaves to avoid bruising the delicate stems.

Where to Plant:
Only plant out in late May or June once all risk of frost has passed. They demand full sun and deep, rich, well-drained soil. Dahlias are hungry plants; we recommend digging in plenty of organic matter or well-rotted manure before planting. Space plants 45cm apart to allow for vigorous growth.

Ongoing Care:
To ensure a relentless display, pinching and deadheading are vital. Pinch out the top growing tip once the plant has 3-4 pairs of leaves to encourage a bushy, multi-stemmed habit. Throughout the summer, regularly remove faded flower heads to prevent the plant from setting seed, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh "pompoms" until the first frosts in October.

The compact, spherical structure of Pompone Dahlias looks spectacular when paired with lighter, airier partners from our range:

• ☁️ Ammi majus: The Texture Match. The soft white lace of Ammi majus creates a perfect visual contrast with the rigid, geometric balls of the Pompone Dahlias. Together, they create a professional "florist-grade" look in the border that is spectacular for late-summer bouquets.
• 💙 Salvia 'Victoria Blue': The Shape Contrast. The upright, deep indigo spikes of this Salvia provide a cool, vertical element that beautifully offsets the round shapes and warm carnival colours of the Pompone mix. This pairing adds both depth and structural diversity to any sunny bed.

Sow indoors in spring for a vibrant carnival of perfectly spherical blooms from mid-summer until the autumn frosts.