A century of dahlias
Since 1927
A family farm rooted in Oregon soil and devoted to growing the most extraordinary dahlias in the world.
For nearly 100 years, Swan Island Dahlias has cultivated beauty, tradition, and innovation from the rich farmland of the Willamette Valley. Today, we are proud to be the largest dahlia grower in the United States and a destination for flower lovers from around the world.
Every bloom we grow carries a story of family, land, and generations devoted to the art of the dahlia.
rooted in the land
Where It All Began
1927 Portland, Oregon
Swan Island Dahlias was founded in 1927 by Frances McCarter, later McDuffee, and her husband. Originally known as Rex Dahlia Gardens, the business began in Portland, Oregon, with farming in the Sellwood district and offices and warehouses near Swan Island.
The name changed over the years, first to Portland Dahlia Garden in 1934, and then to Swan Island Dahlias in 1948.
In the 1940s, the farm moved to Canby, Oregon, where the rich, sandy soil of the Willamette Valley proved ideal for growing exceptional dahlias.
Today, the farm spans nearly 50 acres and continues to grow in the same community we’ve called home for generations.
A family devoted to flowers
Family Legacy
The Gitts Family
In 1963, Nick and Margaret Gitts purchased Swan Island Dahlias and moved their family of seven from Washington to Oregon. They had previously owned a dairy farm and a small dahlia business called Laurel Valley Dahlias, but Swan Island brought a new opportunity: 20 acres of dahlias, plus a growing retail, mail-order, and wholesale business.
Under the Gitts family, the farm continued to grow, eventually expanding to nearly 50 acres. Nick and Margaret’s sons, Nicholas and Ted, joined the business in the 1970s and later purchased the farm as their parents retired.
Today, Swan Island Dahlias remains family-owned and operated. Nicholas Gitts continues to lead the farm, while his daughter, Heather Gitts-Schloe, manages the office, website, and day-to-day business. The farm is now carried forward by the second and third generations of the Gitts family, with deep pride in its history and great care for its future.
Our History
1927
It all began with Frances McCarter and her husband, who founded Rex Dahlia Gardens in Portland, Oregon—a legacy that continues to bloom 100 years later.
1934
As the business continued to grow, the name was changed to Portland Dahlia Gardens, reflecting its expanding reputation and connection to the Portland area.
1948
The 1940s brought a major transformation as the business moved to Canby, Oregon, and officially became Swan Island Dahlias, planting roots that continue to flourish today.
1950's
n 1952, Frances McCarter’s son, Dick McCarter, and his wife, Shirley, took over the business. One year later, Swan Island Dahlias moved to its current location, where the legacy continues to bloom today.
1953
Family has always been at the heart of Swan Island Dahlias. When Nick and Margaret Gitts purchased the business, they moved to Oregon with their five children, planting roots that continue to flourish today.
1960's
A glimpse into the farm during the 1960s—a time of growth, hard work, and family dedication.
1975
The next generation stepped into leadership when brothers Nicholas and Ted Gitts became partners in the business alongside their parents, helping shape the future of Swan Island Dahlias.
1991
Family, tradition, and passion continue to bloom. When Nick and Margaret Gitts retired, their sons Nicholas and Ted purchased the business, ushering in the next chapter of Swan Island Dahlias' story.
2013
ed Gitts dedicated much of his life to Swan Island Dahlias, helping shape the business through hard work and commitment. Following the tragic loss of Ted and his wife, Debbie, in 2015, we continue to honor his memory through the fields he cared for and the legacy he helped build. Away from the farm, his favorite place was often on the river, enjoying a day of fishing.
2016
Marge Gitts was known for many things—her famous lemon pies, her dedication to the Portland Dahlia Society, and her tireless work ethic around the farm. Most of all, she was known for her caring heart. She gave freely of her time and talents, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
2020
Long before he officially joined the company, Brendon Schloe was helping Swan Island Dahlias grow. For over two decades, he spent evenings, weekends, and time off supporting the farm's IT needs. His transition to a full-time role marked the continuation of a long-standing dedication to the family business and its success.
2021
Looking toward the future, Heather and Brendon Schloe purchased an additional 9.9 acres near the farm, expanding Swan Island Dahlias' growing capacity to nearly 50 acres. This investment ensures more space to grow, innovate, and continue sharing beautiful dahlias with generations to come.
2025
Phase 2 of our remodel was completed, bringing a long-held dream to life for our family farm. With the addition of a beautiful new office and the completion of THE MERCANTILE, we created a space that honors our history while preparing Swan Island Dahlias for the future. What began as a vision is now a reality for generations to come.
2026
Swan Island Dahlias in 2026. From a small family business founded in 1927 to nearly 50 acres of cultivation, this view represents 100 years of passion, perseverance, and a love for growing beautiful dahlias.
2026
The Centennial Season begins! Founded in 1927, Swan Island Dahlias proudly celebrates 100 years during our 2026–2027 Centennial Season. Join us as we honor a Century of Blooms and a Future Rooted in Beauty with Dolly the Dahlia Train, a newly inspired floral display, expanded classes, and unforgettable experiences on the farm. Here's to the next 100 years! The Gitts & Schloe Families (2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generation Growers of Swan Island Dahlias)
More Than a Flower
The Art of the Dahlia
Dahlias are among the most expressive flowers in the garden, and growing them is both a science and an art.
At Swan Island Dahlias, we grow more than 375 varieties across nearly 50 acres, carefully cultivating each plant for beauty, strength, and quality. Our family has spent generations selecting, growing, and introducing dahlias in remarkable shapes, sizes, and colors.
Some varieties become longtime favorites. Others are brand new introductions.
Every one begins in the soil of this farm.
Our mission
To grow extraordinary dahlias and share their beauty with gardeners around the world.
We are proud of the farming tradition our family brings to Swan Island Dahlias. As stewards of a nearly century-old business, we remain dedicated to growing the highest-quality dahlias now and for future generations.
Welcome to Swan Island Dahlias, the Dahlia Capital of America.
