How to pinch dahlias to get more flowers?

From classic to original, refined or simple, exotic or understated, there are all kinds of Dahlias to suit every taste. However, they share one thing in common: they are prized for very long uninterrupted flowering, starting in summer and lasting until first autumn cold. For several years these qualities have brought Dahlias back into the spotlight, in pots as well as planted in garden soil. It is even possible to achieve even more abundant flowering by following a few simple steps. Discover in our tutorial, how to pinch dahlias to get more flowers during summer!

how to pinch dahlias Pinching dahlias produces abundant flowering (here: Ornamental Dahlia 'Duke Duweno').

Why pinch Dahlias?

By pinching your Dahlia, that is by cutting tip of main stem, you will force it to produce two lateral shoots instead of a single central one. The plant will thus branch and become denser. It will form more stems and therefore more flowers. Note that pinching delays flowering by one to two weeks, but it will be more abundant and longer-lasting, often stretching into October.

In addition, the dahlia will have a more spreading habit and will be more vigorous. The plant will then be more resistant to bad weather and may even do without a stake.

When to pinch Dahlias?

Young dahlia shoots are pinched at end of spring, or at very start of summer depending on region. Do this when plant has 4 to 5 sets of leaves. At this stage it generally measures between 20 and 30 cm in height.

During summer, you can also encourage the dahlia to flower again by removing faded flowers, and by cutting fresh flowers for lovely colourful bouquets.

pinch dahlias - Dahlia cactus Karma Sangria Dahlia cactus 'Karma Sangria'

How to pinch Dahlias?

What do I need?

Dahlias can be pinched simply by hand, with a pruning shear or with scissors.
To cut flowering stems, also use a pruning shear or a small garden knife to make a clean cut without damaging plant.
Remember to clean and disinfect tools before use to limit transmission of diseases from one plant to another.

How to pinch dahlias correctly?

Observe your Dahlia. It should measure 20 to 30 cm in height and have 4 to 5 sets of leaves.
Grip tip of central stem between thumb and forefinger, just above last pair of leaves. Pinch firmly and break stem with your nails. If you are worried about damaging rest of plant, use a pruning shear.

action: how to pinch dahlias Pinch firmly and cut stem with your nails.

Your Dahlia will then quickly produce 2 lateral stems.
After this operation, remember to water your Dahlia generously, at least twice a week. Indeed, it is greedy for water during development phase.

Make bouquets

When you cut Dahlia flowers to make splendid colourful bouquets, you encourage production of new flowers. This maintains dahlia plants while decorating home.

Cut off faded flowers

As soon as Dahlia flowers start to fade, remove them at base with a pruning shear. You will prevent plant from exhausting itself and encourage it to produce new flowers.

Tip for larger flowers:

If you prefer larger flowers, keep only one flower bud per stem and remove other lateral buds. Also remove small shoots in leaf axils. The plant will then concentrate all its energy on development of that large flower.