Dahlia
dahlia x
Also known as: ["Dahlia hybrid","Garden Dahlia"]
Overview
A genus of bushy, tuberous, herbaceous perennial plants native to Mexico, known for their striking, decorative flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Dahlia |
| Botanical Name: | Dahlia x |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent tuber rot.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good drainage; amend with compost for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead weekly during blooming; major pruning in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pots for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun on leaves.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; adjust based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, loamy soil
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Test soil pH annually; avoid overwatering; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth; tolerate cooler nights but avoid frost; adjust for seasonal changes.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering; avoid contact with stems or leaves; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of tubers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Spring, when new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut above leaf nodes; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth for bushier plants; cut back in fall after frost.
Tools
Clean pruners, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place tubers just below soil surface.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for tuberous varieties to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; increase to twice weekly in hot, dry conditions; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; use raised beds if drainage is poor.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or flower bud abortion in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth for protection; ensure soil is well-drained.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter; dilute to half-strength for young plants.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDahlia x is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDahlia x is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would cause harm to canines if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDahlia x is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are dahlias toxic to pets?
A: Yes, dahlias are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should dahlias be watered?
A: Dahlias should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
Q: Do dahlias come back every year?
A: In colder climates, dahlias are treated as annuals, but their tubers can be dug up and stored to replant the following spring.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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