The image shows a close-up of a Cafe au Lait dahlia, a popular variety known for its large, creamy, dinner-plate-sized blooms. The flower exhibits numerous petals, ranging in color from pale yellow at the center to almost white at the tips, with a hint of apricot in the middle. The petals are slightly ruffled, giving the bloom a soft, full appearance. In the background, there are other dahlia buds and foliage, suggesting the flower is part of a larger plant in a garden setting. The sky is overcast, providing diffused light that enhances the flower's delicate colors. Cafe au Lait dahlias are favored for their romantic aesthetic and are commonly used in cut flower arrangements and gardens. They are known to produce multiple tubers from a single tuber, and their blooms can reach up to 10 inches in diameter.
 
**Dahlia Seedling Growth Guide**
 
**When to Plant:**  
In the Southern Hemisphere, dahlia seeds should be sown indoors from late winter to early spring (approximately August to September) to allow for a head start. Once the danger of frost has passed, typically in late spring (October), seedlings can be transplanted outdoors.
 
**How to Plant:**  
1. **Seed Preparation:** Start by soaking dahlia seeds in water for 24 hours to enhance germination.
2. **Sowing:** Fill seed trays or pots with a quality seed-starting mix. Sow seeds approximately 1 cm deep, spacing them 5-10 cm apart.
3. **Watering:** Gently water the soil to moisten it, ensuring not to saturate. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
4. **Transplanting:** Once seedlings are 15-20 cm tall and have developed a few true leaves, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Transplant into well-draining garden beds, spacing plants 30-90 cm apart, depending on the variety.
 
**Preferred Conditions:**  
- **Light:** Full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day).
- **Soil:** Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- **Watering:** Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.
- **Temperature:** Ideal daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C.
 
Following these guidelines will promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms in your dahlia plants.