How to Grow Lights of London
Wikimedia Commons
Lights of London
Dahlia × hybridus 'Lights of London'
flowerLights of London is a stunning dahlia cultivar prized for its deep burgundy to dark red petals with striking golden-yellow tips and centers. This decorative-type dahlia produces large, showy blooms on sturdy stems, making it excellent for cut flowers and garden displays. It's a tender perennial that blooms prolifically from summer through fall.
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Example Lights of London timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lights of London
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 Lights of London blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lights of London dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-10; grown as summer annual in colder regions or dug up and stored over winter
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Tuber/Transplant
2-4 weeksDormant tubers or young transplants with minimal foliage; tubers show small growing eyes or shoots beginning to emerge
Plant after last frost when soil is warm (60°F+). Space 18-24 inches apart. Keep soil lightly moist. Avoid overwatering dormant tubers as they may rot.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksRapid stem and leaf development; plant reaches 2-4 feet tall with lush green foliage and branching structure
Pinch off terminal bud when plant reaches 12 inches to encourage bushier growth. Support with stakes or cages early. Water regularly and deeply. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Flowering
6-8 weeksLarge, double decorative blooms appear with deep burgundy petals tipped in golden yellow. Flowers typically 4-6 inches across on sturdy stems
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering. Cut flowers in early morning for longest vase life. Stake tall stems if needed. Continue fertilizing with phosphorus-rich formula.
Peak Bloom & Harvest
4-6 weeksPlant covered in abundant flowers; blooms are full-sized and vibrant with excellent color contrast
Harvest regularly for bouquets; cutting actually stimulates more blooms. Monitor for pests and disease. Maintain consistent watering schedule.
Senescence & Dormancy
Variable; 5-6 months dormancyAfter first frost, foliage blackens and dies back. Tubers harden in soil for winter dormancy
In zones 3-7, dig tubers after first frost. Cut back foliage to 2-3 inches. Cure tubers in warm, dry location for 7-10 days. Store in cool (50-60°F), dry place with peat moss. In zones 8-10, may overwinter in ground with mulch protection.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles and egg clusters. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove affected leaves. Use row covers on young plants.
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Increase humidity by misting foliage. Spray with water to dislodge mites. Use miticide if severe. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Spray with strong water stream. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introduce ladybugs. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer.
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Remove affected flowers and buds. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Avoid overhead watering.
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Improve air circulation. Spray with sulfur or baking soda solution. Remove infected leaves. Water at soil level only.
Uses
Edible flower garnish
CulinaryDahlia petals are edible and add striking color and visual appeal to salads, desserts, and cocktails. They have a slightly sweet taste and are commonly used by chefs for plating decoration. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
HouseholdLights of London is a premium cut flower with exceptional vase life and striking color contrast that makes it ideal for bouquets, centerpieces, and floral designs. Professional florists highly value this variety for its large blooms and strong stems. [source]
Flower pressing and drying
CraftThe large petals press and dry beautifully for crafts, scrapbooking, and botanical art projects. The burgundy-gold color combination maintains well through the drying process. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeDahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the season. Flowers provide abundant nectar and pollen as food sources during late summer and fall when other blooms are scarce. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when stems are fully hydrated. Harvest blooms when fully open or at tight bud stage depending on preference. Cut stems at 45-degree angle with sharp, clean knife. Remove lower foliage before placing in water. Change water every 2-3 days. Vase life typically 7-14 days. Regular harvesting promotes more blooms. Wear gloves when handling tubers—some people develop skin sensitivity.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dahlias are native to Mexico and were considered sacred by the Aztecs, who used them as a food source; the Spanish conquistadors brought them to Europe in the 16th century.
- 🌱 The name 'Dahlia' honors Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, and there are over 30,000 registered dahlia cultivars worldwide, ranging from 1-inch pompoms to 12-inch dinner-plate varieties.
- 🌱 Lights of London is a relatively modern cultivar that has won awards at major flower shows for its exceptional color contrast and commercial cut flower potential.
Gardening Terms
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