How to Grow Esther Read
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Esther Read
Dahlia × hybrida 'Esther Read'
flowerEsther Read is a striking double dahlia cultivar known for its pure white, fully double blooms with a compact, bushy growth habit. This variety produces abundant flowers throughout the growing season and is prized for its use in borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements. It is a reliable performer in most climates with proper care.
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Example Esther Read timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Esther Read
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Esther Read blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Esther Read dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; can be grown in zones 7-10 with winter mulching in cooler areas
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Tuber dormancy
Fall through early springDahlia tubers are stored dormant before planting, appearing as brown woody structures with visible eyes or buds
Store tubers in cool (50-60°F), dry location; inspect periodically for mold or rot; do not water during dormancy
Sprouting and early growth
2-4 weeks after plantingEyes on tubers sprout and stems emerge from soil; first true leaves develop on young shoots
Plant tubers after last frost when soil is warm (60°F+); water gently and moderately; avoid overwatering which causes rot; provide support structure early if needed
Vegetative growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and bushy foliage; leaf pairs form regularly along stems; no flower buds yet visible
Pinch growing tips when plant reaches 12 inches tall to promote branching and bushier habit; water regularly and deeply; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; mulch around base
Flowering
6-12 weeks, can continue until first hard frostFlower buds form at stem tips and axils; pure white double blooms open progressively in succession throughout the season
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; provide weekly fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium; stake if needed for support; watch for pests and disease
Senescence and dormancy
Several weeks after frost until springAfter first hard frost (28°F), foliage blackens and dies back completely; tubers undergo dormancy underground
Cut back dead foliage; dig tubers carefully 1-2 weeks after frost; allow to dry for 1-2 weeks in cool place; store in dry medium (peat, sand, or sawdust) at 50-60°F for winter
Common Pests
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; plant in disease-free soil; disinfect tubers with fungicide before storage; remove and discard infected tubers
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Spray foliage with strong water spray; apply miticide if severe; increase humidity; remove heavily infested leaves
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects; remove by hand for light infestations
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Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove affected flowers; introduce predatory mites; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply sulfur dust or fungicide at first signs; remove infected leaves
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Hand-pick beetles in early morning; use pheromone traps away from plants; apply neem oil or insecticide if severe
Uses
Edible flowers
CulinaryDahlia petals are edible with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can garnish salads, desserts, or be candied for decoration. Only petals from pesticide-free plants should be consumed. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
HouseholdEsther Read's pure white double blooms are excellent for fresh cut flower arrangements, wedding bouquets, and floral displays. The flowers have good vase life lasting up to 10 days and hold their form well. [source]
Dried flowers
CraftDahlia flowers can be dried for use in dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. Hang-dry in a warm, dark location with good air circulation. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeDahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden, providing essential food sources throughout the blooming season and supporting local ecosystems. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, dahlia tubers have been used for their potential anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, though modern scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting blooms when flowers are fully open and firm to touch, typically in early morning after dew has dried. Cut stems at a 45-degree angle; remove lower foliage and place immediately in cool water with floral preservative. Dahlia blooms last 7-10 days in a vase. Continue deadheading spent flowers on the plant to promote continuous blooming throughout the season until frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dahlias are native to Mexico and were revered by the Aztecs, who used them for both food and ceremonies; the modern dahlia obsession began in Victorian England where the flower became a status symbol among gardeners.
- 🌱 The name 'Esther Read' honors a notable dahlia enthusiast or hybridizer from dahlia's golden era of cultivation in the early-to-mid 20th century.
- 🌱 Dahlias have tuberous roots that multiply each year, allowing gardeners to easily divide and propagate plants; a single tuber can produce dozens of clones, making them economical for large plantings.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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