Dahlias provide a real bloom in the garden. But in order to enjoy them, dahlias need to be cared for and cared for properly.
Native to Mexico, Dahlias (Dahlia) have long been one of the most popular flowers in gardens and parks. They are particularly interesting for hobby gardeners due to their unusual variety of shapes and colours. Although the dahlia can be described as a rather easy-care garden plant, there are still some aspects to consider when caring for it. The willingness of the plant to flower in particular is decisively influenced by correct handling. We show you how to optimally care for your dahlias.
The right location for dahlias
Dahlias are outspoken sun worshipers among ornamental plants and are therefore best placed in full sun. In addition to the right location, the soil is also important for the growth and he alth of the colorful flower: Ideally, the planting site has nutrient-rich soil that is relatively permeable. Compacted clay and loam soils are generally not very suitable. In this case, sand should be incorporated to improve water drainage. The incorporation of compost, which also loosens up the soil structure and provides additional nutrients, has also proven effective.
When choosing a location, pay attention to the following points:
- Full sun
- Nutrient-rich and permeable soil
Dahlias: buy tubers or dahlias in pots?
Many people wonder whether it makes more sense to plant tubers or to buy a whole plant. First of all, you should note: Dahlias that have already grown will flower several weeks before the tubers inserted. You can also take this step yourself by growing the tubers indoors from March.
Soil and Substrate Characteristics for Dahlias
Both when planting the tubers outdoors and when growing them indoors, the permeability of the soil is important to prevent rot in theroot area comes. A high-quality potting soil such as our peat-free Plantura organic potting soil is ideal. This is used both to improve the soil in the bed and for dahlias in pots.
Planting dahlia bulbs correctly
Planting the dahlia tubers requires a little attention to make planting a success: soak the tubers in water for one night before planting to compensate for the moisture loss from overwintering. Then insert the tubers so deep that the tip is a few centimeters below the surface of the earth. Depending on the variety, the dahlias should be planted outdoors at a distance of 30 to 100 cm.
Proper care for dahlias in beds and pots
Caring for dahlias requires comparatively little effort and the flowering plants rarely need to be checked. We'll show you what you should still pay attention to.
Watering dahlias correctly
Water your dahlias as needed as the soil begins to dry out. On the other hand, when it’s hot in midsummer, you can use the watering can more often. You should be careful not to flood your flowers with water, as the exotic plants do not tolerate waterlogging well. Also, when watering, be careful to only water the soil under the plant and avoid wetting the leaves.
Fertilize dahlias correctly
The most sensible way to supply dahlias with nutrients is to use primarily organic long-term fertilizers or compost. Work our Plantura organic flower fertilizer into the soil before planting the dahlias and repeat the process over the summer.
Cutting dahlias: Cut off dried flowers and leaves
Pruning your dahlia is not only useful to give the plant a decorative shape, but also to influence growth and flowering. Cut off dead flowers and leaves regularly to stimulate the formation of new shoots. In this way you get the dahlia to develop more flowers. If you prefer particularly large flowers, it is worth keeping only a few shoots. You can also achieve more branching of the plant if you cut off a few shoot tips at the beginning.
The following cutting measures are worthwhilelook at the dahlia:
- Pruning shoot tips: Stronger branching
- Cut off dried flowers: formation of new shoots and flowers
- Get fewer shoots: larger buds
Successfully wintering dahlias
The most effective way to overwinter dahlias is to dig up the bulbs in the fall. Immediately after the first frost, cut the dahlias down to a length of 10 cm and carefully dig out the bulbs. In an airy and cool, but frost-free environment, they can remain until next spring, after which they can be used again.