About Us
Welcome to Sleepy Dog Dahlia Farm! We’re Susanne and Jesse, a husband-and-wife team with two charming (and sometimes mischievous) dogs, Wylla and Olivia. We've been married for 20 years, and together we’ve cultivated not just flowers, but a shared love for gardening and nature.
Gardening is in my (Susanne's) roots—quite literally. Growing up as the youngest of five kids, I was surrounded by a large family garden filled with fruits, vegetables, and, of course, flowers. Many of my siblings and I still carry on the gardening traditions.
Picture: Mom and Dad at a Milwaukee Brewer game with the family.
A few years ago, Jesse and I decided to dive headfirst into the world of dahlias, and we’ve never looked back. The variety of colors, sizes, and bloom styles is like having an art gallery right at our fingertips. Each dahlia is its own masterpiece, bringing joy and beauty to our lives and the lives of those we share them with.
At Sleepy Dog Dahlia Farm, we believe in the healing power of nature. Whether you’re planting dahlias in your garden, surrounding yourself with their vibrant blooms, or sharing them with friends, flowers have a magical way of lifting spirits and soothing the soul. Our mission is to bring a little piece of nature to everyone, offering not just dahlias but a slice of tranquility and happiness.
We’re proud to follow the American Dahlia Society’s best practices (see link below), which include diligently disinfecting tools and removing any plants that show signs of a virus. Though, admittedly, we’ve shed a tear or two over lost blooms.
Transparency is key for us, and we want to share that we’ve had to rename some of our dahlias due to trademarking by their original breeders. While we deeply respect these breeders and their incredible work, as a small business, we’re keeping things simple and straightforward for now.
The Joy of Canine Companionship
At Sleepy Dog Dahlia Farm, our dogs, Wylla and Olivia, played a big role in naming our business. While we’re busy working in the garden, they love exploring, enjoying the fresh air, and taking in all the smells. After a while, they settle down for naps in the shade, perfectly capturing the peaceful feel of our garden. Our pups embody the spirit of our farm—welcoming, nurturing, and full of life.
Picture: Olivia and Wylla staying cool in the puppy pool.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, we welcome all your questions and love sharing what we’ve learned. We are no experts but we love gardening and can share what we do know. Our journey with dahlias has been a mix of beauty, discovery, and yes, a few missteps along the way. We hope to inspire others to find joy in gardening and the simple pleasures it brings. So, grab a cup of tea, meet our pups, and let’s grow something beautiful together!
Picture: This is my 81 year old mom playing in the garden.