Dahlias are vibrant, showy flowers native to Central America, particularly Mexico. They are known for their striking variety of colors, sizes, and forms, ranging from small, single-petaled blooms to large, intricate double-petaled varieties. Dahlia flowers can be found in nearly every color of the rainbow except blue. The plant itself is a perennial, but in colder climates, it is often treated as an annual because it cannot survive frost.
Sowing Dahlia Seeds
1. - Start dahlia seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. - If sowing directly outdoors, wait until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (16°C).
2. Soil Preparation: - Use a well-draining seed-starting mix for indoor sowing. - For outdoor sowing, choose a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. Work organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Planting Depth: - Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch (6 mm) deep. - Space the seeds or seedlings 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart for medium-sized varieties, and 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) apart for larger varieties.
4. Watering: - Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to seed rot. - Once the seeds have germinated (in 7-14 days), continue to water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
5. Light: - Dahlias require full sunlight for best growth and blooming. Provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. - For indoor seedlings, place them under grow lights or in a bright window.
Growing dahlia: 1. Transplanting (if started indoors): - Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle and all danger of frost has passed, they can be transplanted into the garden. - Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for about a week before transplanting.
2. Staking: - Dahlias can grow tall and produce heavy blooms, so taller varieties will benefit from staking to prevent them from toppling over. - Insert stakes or cages at planting time to avoid disturbing the roots later.
3. Feeding: - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers. - Continue to feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.
4. Watering: - Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained. - Mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
5. Pinching and Deadheading: - Pinch out the growing tips of young plants to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. - Regularly deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.
6. Pests and Diseases: - Watch out for common pests like aphids, slugs, and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or other appropriate measures as needed. - Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
7. End of Season Care: - In frost-prone areas, dig up the tubers after the first frost, let them dry, and store them in a cool, dry place over the winter. - In milder climates, you can leave the tubers in the ground, but it's often recommended to lift and divide them every few years to maintain plant vigor.
