The Story
Plant Bio
Dahlia 'Apricot Desire' produces striking apricot-colored blooms, with a bushy growth habit.
This cultivar is particularly noted for its unique soft color and long-lasting blooms, making it a favorite for cutting gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
40 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Tender perennial
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to dogs and cats
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring after the last frost.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering and growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
- Stake taller varieties to support heavy flower heads and prevent breakage.
Pro Tip
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks for best results
- Stake tall varieties early to support heavy blooms
- Monitor for pests and treat promptly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
- Don’t skip mulching, which helps conserve moisture and control weeds
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Don’t disturb tubers during the growing season
- Avoid planting in shady areas, as they need full sun
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Apricot Desire Dahlia questions
What zones can Apricot Desire Dahlia grow in?
Apricot Desire Dahlia is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Apricot Desire Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Apricot Desire Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Apricot Desire Dahlia bloom?
Apricot Desire Dahlia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Apricot Desire Dahlia need full sun?
Apricot Desire Dahlia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Dahlia to compare
Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis
Dinnerplate Cutting Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Dinnerplate Cutting Blend'
Hart Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis 'Hart'
Dahlia Mix
Dahlia x hybrida 'Mix'
Babette Giant Ball Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Babette Giant Ball'
Lady Darlene Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Lady Darlene'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Apricot Desire Dahlia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.