DAHLIAS in the vase can be a little tricky, but if you follow some simple guidelines, they can provide you with a beautiful, lasting indoor arrangement. When you choose the right bloom, make sure that the centers aren't fully out yet. Cut stems early in the morning, before the sun comes up, or in the evening, after the sun has set. Immediately plunge in deep tepid water and let the blooms sit overnight. When ready to arrange, re-cut the stem an inch, then either crush the bottom with a hammer, or you can sear the bottom of each stem with a match (I put mine on the stove burner). Both these methods ensure the most water will get to your bloom, and last the longest. Choose varieties that have the longest stems possible. There are some dinner plate dahlias that don't have long stems and you'll find it more difficult to put these in arrangements. Use a floral preservative, and change the water, if possible, every 2-3 days. Then enjoy your masterpiece--and just one dahlia bloom can be just that--a masterpiece! Dahlias are one of my favorite perennials--especially these giants dinner plate varieties.
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