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Dahlia Care: How to Grow Dahlias
How to Grow Dahlias: A Comprehensive Guide
What are Dahlias?
Dahlia care: Dahlias are tuberous plants that produce beautiful flowers in a wide range of colors and shapes. They are native to Mexico and Central America, but they are now grown all over the world. Dahlias are typically grown as annuals, but they can be overwintered in mild climates.
Types of Dahlias
There are many different types of dahlias, each with its own unique appearance. Some of the most popular types include:
- Single dahlias: Single dahlias have one ring of petals and a central disc. They are popular with pollinators.
- Cactus dahlias: Cactus dahlias have tubular petals that curve outward. They come in a variety of sizes, from miniature to giant.
- Semi-cactus dahlias: Semi-cactus dahlias have fully double, fluffy-looking flowers. The petals have a broader base at the bottom than cactus dahlias and are rolled for about half of their length.
- Pompon dahlias: Pompon dahlias are small, spherical flowers with petals that are curved inward.
- Ball dahlias: Ball dahlias are larger than pompon dahlias and have a spiral arrangement of curved petals that form a ball or a slightly flattened sphere.
- Waterlily dahlias: Waterlily dahlias have flat petals that resemble water lilies.
- Anemone dahlias: Anemone dahlias have tubular florets in their center, surrounded by at least one ring of flatter petals on the outside.
- Decorative dahlias: Decorative dahlias have fully double, slightly flat, and broad petals with blunt ends. They are the largest of all the dahlias, with flowers that can be up to 25cm in diameter.
How to Grow Dahlias from Tubers
Dahlias are typically grown from tubers, which are available from garden centers and online retailers in the spring. To plant dahlia tubers, follow these steps:
- Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the tuber.
- Place the tuber in the hole with the growing tip facing up.
- Cover the tuber with soil and water well.
- Stake the dahlia plant to support it as it grows.
How to Care for Dahlias
Dahlia care
Dahlias are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do require some basic care. Here are a few tips:
- Water dahlias regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Fertilize dahlias every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth.
- Protect dahlias from slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage and flowers.
How to Overwinter Dahlias
If you live in a cold climate, you will need to overwinter your dahlia tubers. To do this, follow these steps:
- Dig up the dahlia tubers after the first frost.
- Cut the stems back to about 12cm.
- Clean the tubers and dry them in a cool, dark place for a few weeks.
- Store the tubers in a cool, dark place over the winter.
In the spring, you can replant the dahlia tubers in your garden.
Tips for Growing Dahlias
Here are a few additional tips for growing dahlias:
- Plant dahlias in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Fertilize dahlias regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth.
- Protect dahlias from slugs and snails.
- Overwinter Dahlia tubers in cold climates.
With proper care, your dahlias will thrive and produce beautiful flowers all summer.