Over 11000 dahlias. Can you believe it? That’s how many individual plants bloom in Hamburg’s Dahliengarten each year. This isn’t just any garden. It’s a vibrant tapestry of color and history.
The Dahliengarten opened in 1932. It’s located in Altona’s Volkspark. Before that the first dahlias were planted in a school garden in 1920. Today this remarkable garden boasts over 600 different dahlia varieties. It covers 15000 square meters. Imagine a sea of color every autumn.
The Dahliengarten isn’t just about the flowers. It’s a living testament to horticultural dedication. Every year a new dahlia variety gets a special christening. Prominent Hamburgers like Loki Schmidt and Uwe Seeler have even lent their names to these blooms. The ‘Ferdinand Tutenberg’ dahlia stands out. It’s a strong red variety named after the Volkspark’s creator and the Dahliengarten’s initiator. A beautiful tribute.
These Mexican imports aren’t fans of Hamburg’s winters. From November to May they retreat into a winter shelter. Think of the effort involved in caring for so many plants. Four dedicated workers ensure the annual spectacle of blooms. The dahlias drink from a deep well. It’s 32 meters deep. The bulbs are carefully dug up in autumn. They’re stored on air-permeable grids until spring. The Dahliengarten is a testament to dedication and care.
The Dahliengarten is more than just a pretty face. It’s a historic landmark. The garden itself and the entire Volkspark have been listed as a protected monument since 2002. So next time you’re in Hamburg don’t miss the spectacle of the Dahliengarten. Marvel at the diverse blooms. Enjoy the history and the beauty. This little corner of Hamburg holds more than meets the eye.