Autumn reflections: A Season of Change and Transformation

After a growing season of sensationally brilliant dahlias, the period of dormancy that autumn precedes is a time for regeneration that helps prepare for the period of rest and renewal. This workshop will focus on the essential skills of putting these beauties to rest for the Winter, ensuring their renewal in the Spring. Whether you are a gardening novice or a seasoned green thumb, this day will provide you with valuable knowledge to cultivate these stunning flowers.

The day will begin with an introduction to the life cycle of dahlias starting with end-of-season care. You will learn to prepare dahlia plants for lifting, storing and the importance of proper care of tubers. Weather permitting, lifting tubers will be a hands-on experience, followed by a step-by-step demonstration of the many ways to over-winter tubers, including dividing tuber clumps and storage practices. 

Throughout the day, you’ll take time to reflect on the transformation from the energy of the growing season, to resting and renewal of nature, drawing inspiration from the regenerative process of planting, growing and harvesting.

The lifting exercise will be performed in our gardens, please dress according to the weather. If you are interested in actual digging, please bring a pitch fork. The tuber division demonstration will be done inside. If you prefer to divide your tuber clumps in the fall, feel free to bring a few of your own clumps for advice on how to separate them.

Each participant will receive seedling tuber clumps to take home and a book of year-round dahlia care.

The program will begin at 10 AM, followed by lunch at 12:30 PM. During lunch, Julie will be available to answer questions. If additional discussion is needed, the group can reconvene afterward to address any remaining questions.   

This workshop may take longer as I intend to do the outside exercise.

Spaces are limited, so sign up today to secure your spot!