Dahlia Dwarf Dandy new

Description

Dahlia Dwarf Dandy new

Dahlia Dwarf Dandy new. A dwarf bushy variety producing ‘collarette’ type blooms in many shades all with a white or contrasting inner collar of quilled petals ‘ Height 50-60cm. Will flower late into autumn until the first frost. A half-hardy annual that will form tubers and re-grow the following year in milder areas.

Cultivation Advice

• Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Dahlias love full sun, so ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
• Plant tubers after the last frost date when the soil has warmed. Starting tubers indoors a few weeks before the last frost can encourage earlier growth.
• Ensure the soil is loose, fertile, and well-draining. Incorporate organic matter like compost to enhance soil structure and fertility.
• Plant tubers about 2-4 inches deep with the eye (sprout) facing upward. Space tubers approximately 6-8 inches apart.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry spells or active growth periods.
• Apply mulch around the plants to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Keep the area around the tubers free from weeds to minimize competition.
• Some varieties might not require support, but if they become top-heavy or lean, consider providing discreet support with small stakes or rings.
• Use a balanced fertilizer or a higher phosphorus blend to promote blooming. Apply fertilizer following package instructions.
• Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Prune or cut faded flowers back to the nearest set of leaves.
• After the first frost, lift tubers, allow them to dry for a few days, and store in a cool, dry place. Replant in the spring.
• Consistently inspect plants for signs of pests, diseases, or stress. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and minimizes damage.
• Employ watering methods that deliver water directly to the soil to prevent wetting the foliage, which can invite fungal diseases. Adjust watering frequency based on weather conditions.
• Encourage a more compact, bushy growth habit by pinching off the tips of young plants when they’re about 4-6 inches tall. This encourages lateral branching.
• Regularly check soil moisture, especially during hot weather, and ensure adequate hydration without waterlogging.
• Depending on the variety’s height and structure, consider providing discreet support with stakes or rings to prevent bending or drooping.
• Implement preventive measures against common pests such as aphids or spider mites. Utilize organic remedies or beneficial insects for pest control.
• Practice good garden hygiene by promptly removing and disposing of any diseased plant parts to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer or a bloom-boosting fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to promote robust growth and continuous blooming.
• Maintain a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed growth.
• Regularly harvest flowers for indoor arrangements to encourage more blooms and appreciate the vibrant, compact flowers both outdoors and indoors.
• Continuously remove spent flowers and trim back any dead or damaged stems to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Monitor plant growth; if foliage appears excessive while blooming is limited, reduce nitrogen-rich fertilization and opt for a higher phosphorus blend to support flowering.
• Pair Dahlias with companion plants like marigolds or petunias to enhance aesthetics and provide natural pest control.
• Shield plants from strong winds or excessive sunlight by using temporary covers or shading during the hottest part of the day.
• Monitor individual plants within the mix; some varieties might exhibit distinct growth habits or bloom colors. Note these observations for future planning.
• If planted in containers, be vigilant about soil moisture levels as containers tend to dry out faster. Adjust watering frequency accordingly.
• Regularly check and maintain soil pH within the optimal range (slightly acidic to neutral) for healthy plant growth.
• If planning to store tubers for winter, ensure they are completely dry before storing them in a cool, dry place to prevent rot.
• Embrace the diverse colors and shapes of the compact blooms within the Dahlia Dwarf Dandy variety.
• Explore different planting arrangements or combinations within your garden to showcase the variety of colors and sizes offered by the mixed blooms.