The Story
Plant Bio
Large, showy flowers that are typically used for cutting and arrangements.
Dahlia 'Motto Dinnerplate' is noted for its massive blooms and striking color contrast.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Tender perennial
Native To
Central America
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to pets if ingested
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers 2 inches deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy during growing season.
- Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth after 4 weeks.
- Support tall varieties with stakes as flowers develop.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during summer.
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun and ensure good air circulation to prevent disease.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Support tall stems to prevent breakage
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
- Deadhead regularly for prolonged flowering
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause tuber rot ❌
- Plant in poorly drained soil
- Neglect staking for tall varieties
- Allow foliage to stay wet for long periods
- Use high-nitrogen fertilizer late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| 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
Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia questions
What zones can Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia grow in?
Motto Dinnerplate 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 Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia bloom?
Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia typically blooms in mid-summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia need full sun?
Motto Dinnerplate Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).
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 Motto Dinnerplate 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.