Gurgaon Gardener: Dahlia, Dahlias

Monday, August 11, 2014

Dahlia, Dahlias

Nothing beats a dahlia for spring color. Native to Mexico, where they grow wild on hillsides, these tender bulbs bloom in many colors from spring until autumn. They are one of the major attractions in our annual garden, though they belong to a separate group (Bulb). There are many varieties available now, consists of the major groups, namely; pompon dahlia small and medium cactus dahlia small and medium decorative dahlia and large decorative dahlia. Dahlia flower comes in different color and shapes. The size of the flowers varies from 2 inches to 10 inches in diameter. The petals also vary from single to honeycomb type. Their sunlight requirement is very high. So plant it, where you can get sunlight throughout the day, or at least six hours in a day.

Growing Dahlias in Containers

Dahlias can be planted in containers. If you choose to grow dahlias in containers hybrid varieties of dahlias work best. Container size should not be smaller than 12” x 12” per tuber/seedling. Use 2 parts garden soil, 1 part cow manure and 1 part compost. They will need water to get growing for you. Please make sure to keep your soil slightly damp - or cool to the touch. After plants are 12” high, potted dahlias will require extra watering and fertilizing to promote proper blooming.

Dahlias make excellent cut flowers, which will typically last about a week in the house.

Light: Full Sun

Type: Bulb

Height: From 1 to 6 feet

Width: 2 feet wide, depending on type

Flower Color: Blue, Pink, Red, White, Orange, Yellow, Purple

Foliage Color: Chartreuse/Gold

Seasonal Features: Spring Bloom

Problem Solvers: Drought Tolerant, Ground cover

Special Features: Attracts Birds, Cut Flowers, Good for Containers, Low Maintenance

Dahlia Plant Care

Staking

I recommend staking any dahlias that will reach 3 feet or taller. Any staking product will work, please check your local garden shop - i.e.: metal rods, or bamboo stakes.

Fertilizer
Dahlias require a low nitrogen fertilizer, such as used for vegetables. I recommend high percentage potassium and phosphorus fertilizers such as a 5-10-10, 10-20-20, or 0-20-20. First applications should be within 30 days of planting and repeated again approx. 3-4 weeks later. One of the biggest mistakes made with dahlias is over feeding them. Avoid high nitrogen compost and high nitrogen water soluble types as they promote weak stems, small blooms, or no blooms, and tubers that rot or shrivel in storage.

Watering
After dahlias are established, a deep watering 2-3 times a week for at least 30 minutes with a sprinkler, more required during warmer dryer weather. Hotter climates will need to water more often as conditions require. Proper watering promotes proper blooming.

Topping or Pinching
To promote shorter, bushier plants with better stems for cutting, pinch or cut the center shoot just above the third set of leaves, or plant height of about 18-20” tall.