The stems on dahlia flower stems are usually quite long enough for domestic display purposes. However, if yours are too short - or if you just want larger blooms - removing the wing buds (marked pink) on either side (red) of the crown bud (lime) will help. Additionally, removal of a couple (or even more) developing lateral buds lower down the stem will help even more; but make sure you leave at least a couple for re-growth.All the above is usually only necessary for exhibition. And it doesn't suit all cultivars. But it can be a real benefit to some. It's personal choice.
ENSURE WATER IS NOT LIMITED
If water is limited, size of all parts of a plant - especially the flowers - will be reduced. Plants 'cut their coats' accordingly. This is particularly important when the blooms are filling - and I would say even BEFORE the buds become obvious. Plants seem to lay down buds with greater size potential if adequate water is available when the buds are being formed in the floral meristem (floral meristem replaces apical meristem at flowering).
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