One of the big projects that I’m really excited about this season is collecting dahlia seeds. Since dahlias are loaded with genetic material, you really never know what you’re going to get when you grow plants out the next season. This is definitely something that I definitely want to do next season, so let’s take a closer look at the progress of the dahlia seed pods.Â
Several weeks ago, I stopped picking the dahlia flowers and began to let them go to seed. I have been waiting very patiently for the right time to begin collecting dahlia seeds. Since our fall has been especially wet this year, I really want to allow them as much time as possible to dry and mature outdoors on the plant. 
As you can see from the photo above, I have several flower pods that look very promising. I’m really eager to open these dahlia seed pods and see just exactly how many I will harvest. It seems that many of my ball type dahlias have been especially productive. 
Ideally, you want all of the petals to fall from the pod after pollination. Sometimes, I give the plants a little help as I walk around the garden. Without petal drop, there could be an issue with mold and rot – which often leads to the loss of the precious seeds inside. 
Some varieties definitely produce the seeds more quickly than others. My David Howard dahlias, for example, seem to last forever in the garden before finally setting seed. I’m not complaining though, I suppose that this will make them an excellent pollinator for the other varietieis. 
Before long, it will be time to pick these “ripe” pods. I can’t wait until I’m able to share the process! Have you ever collected dahlia seeds before? How did it go? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below! I hope you’re having an amazing day!
