Description
Cactus Dahlias are a delightful addition to any garden, showcasing spiky, needle-like petals that bloom in a variety of vibrant colours. Despite their name, they aren’t related to cacti; the name comes from their distinct, pointy petals.
These dahlias are particularly resilient to rainy weather and require minimal staking, making them low-maintenance garden stars. Their dramatic appearance also makes them perfect for creating eye-catching floral arrangements.
When planting dahlias in pots, choosing a pot with good drainage is important to prevent waterlogging. A pot at least 30cm in diameter is ideal for giving the tubers enough room to grow.
Successfully cultivating dahlias is very feasible in suitable climates. While dahlias prefer cooler climates, they can also thrive in temperate and tropical regions, depending on the variety. Generally, dahlia flowers are more likely to bloom in climates with mild frosts or without heavy frosts.
If you reside in one of Australia’s frost-prone regions, you can aid your dahlias’ growth by relocating them during winter and storing them in a dry area. For those in hot climates, it can be advantageous to plant dahlia tubers in a garden section that receives ample morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
While dahlias often thrive when left undisturbed for years, it’s advisable to lift and separate them every second winter, particularly if your soil tends to remain damp during winter, which can lead to tuber rot.
When lifting, take care to prevent the tubers from drying out completely. Covering them with soil or sawdust can help prevent this. When dividing your tubers, ensure that each division retains some of the old stem, as this is where new growth will emerge from.
In springtime, it’s advisable to remove the smaller side shoots, preserving only one central flower at the apex. This strategy fosters the optimal growth of the central flower, as it can thrive without the competition for resources from other budding flowers. Additionally, spring is an opportune moment to unearth dahlia tubers and separate them into individual units, making sure each possesses viable eyes, then patiently await their sprouting. Upon observing the emergence of a shoot, it’s time to plant them, and once six pairs of leaves have developed, trimming off the top bud is recommended.
Dahlias can be prone to pests like aphids and spider mites, and diseases such as powdery mildew. Natural methods, like introducing beneficial insects, can be effective. For severe infestations, a pesticide might be necessary. Always follow manufacturer guidelines if using chemicals and consider the impact on your garden’s ecosystem.
Supplied as a dormant tuber.