Dahlias are colorful flowers that originate from Mexico. These plants are one of the most sought after in summer, because it is just the time when their expected flower appears, so striking, and that it remains until autumn. We can see them in pink, lavender, white … and more. Find out how to take care of them and get some spectacular dahlias.
Dahlia flowers are quite large, brightly colored, and in a large number of shades. If the weather is very warm, the dahlia may give its flower after the summer when the temperature is warmer and more pleasant for it, that is, already in autumn.
HOW ARE DAHLIAS CARED FOR?
Dahlias require two very important things: lots of light and water. Even so, we give you more details about its care:
LIGHT
Dahlias require a lot of light, especially if we want the flowers to be showy. So that they can receive good light, it is best to place them next to a window, or at a point of the interior of the house that is quite bright. In the case that there is a fairly strong light, then it is better to opt for a semi-shady area, both inside and outside. It is also important to find a place to protect them from the wind since too much wind can damage the dahlias, and of course, the flower.
WEATHER
Temperate climates are best for dahlias, although it is true that these flowering plants can withstand heat and cold well. They can withstand mild frosts down to -5º C.
COMPOST AND IRRIGATION
These plants appreciate being in lands enriched with a good amount of organic matter. When preparing it, remove the soil or substrate before planting so that it is well loose and with as optimal drainage as possible. As for watering, dahlias are quite resistant to heat, but if we water them frequently enough, the better. It is important to always water on the ground and tries not to wet the leaves or flowers, to avoid excess moisture. Especially during the summer, we must considerably increase the frequency of irrigation, but without getting waterlogged.
DISEASES AND PESTS OF DAHLIAS
Dahlias are not plants susceptible to pests. Although, indeed, we can occasionally find some snails or slugs. To avoid them, we can resort to natural insecticides for this type of plant.
HOW DO YOU PLANT A DAHLIA BULB?
- Don’t plant dahlia tubers too early – they don’t do well in cold soils.
- Plant your dahlias in an area with plenty of suns.
- Sow in rich, well-drained soil.
- The planting hole should be slightly larger than the root ball.
- When planting, add a little compost or bone meal.
- The hole should be 6-8 inches deep. Place the side of the tuber up and cover them with 2-3 inches of soil.
- As the stems sprout, cover with soil until it reaches ground level.
- Taller dahlia varieties will need stake support.
HOW TO TRANSPLANT A DAHLIA?
The best time is in spring. Follow these steps, and learn how to transplant a dahlia correctly:
- Divide the tubers.
- Plant in pots or the garden soil.
- Plant the tubers about 6 inches deep.
- Water sparingly once planted and don’t do it again until the plant sprouts.
HOW TO CARE FOR DWARF DAHLIAS?
As the plant grows, the soil should be added until only 2 centimeters remain between the edge of the pot and the substrate. The irrigation system should not be continuous, it is enough that the plant is poured with water 3 times a week.
HOW TO GET DAHLIAS SEEDS?
After the flower emerges, the seed head begins to develop. When it is completely dry, we will find the black Dalia seeds that are already suitable to be sown.
