Golden Nickles Dahlia Dahlia 'Ac Golden Nickles' (DblO)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Ac Golden Nickles' (DblO) is a delightful cultivated variety that exhibits a striking floral display. Its defining feature is its double flowers, which are characterized by multiple layers of petals that create a full, intricate appearance. The blooms can be recognized by their vibrant golden-yellow color, which brings a cheerful radiance to any garden space. The petals are often evenly spaced and arranged in a spiral pattern that leads towards the flower's center, exuding a neat and orderly aesthetic. The foliage of this plant is typically lush and green, providing a strong contrast to the luminosity of the flowers. Leaves are shaped in a manner consistent with other dahlias, having a somewhat pointed tip and serrated edges. They grow on sturdy stems that support the weight of the hefty blooms but without reference to the exact dimensions or the overall size of the plant. The overall appearance of Dahlia 'Ac Golden Nickles' is one of robust vibrancy and ornamental beauty, making it an attractive addition to floral arrangements and garden beds alike.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia 'Ac Golden Nickles', AC Golden Nickles Dahlia, Double Orchid Golden Nickles.
Common names
Dahlia x hortensis
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting dahlias, and they are not known to contain any toxic principles that would pose a health risk if consumed in small quantities. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it is always recommended to exercise caution and avoid eating plant parts unless they are known to be edible.
To pets
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. They are not listed among plants that are commonly known to cause poisoning in pets. As with humans, ingestion of dahlias might cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals if they consume a large amount of the plant material, but serious toxicity is unlikely. Always monitor pets and prevent them from eating large amounts of any plant, as individual sensitivities could occur.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlias provide stunning, vibrant flowers that add color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: Dahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Cut Flowers: Dahlias are popular for their long-lasting cut flowers, perfect for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Variety: With numerous cultivars available, dahlias offer a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes for personal preference.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are known for being relatively easy to grow, making them a good choice for novice gardeners.
- Seasonal Interest: Flowering from midsummer to fall, dahlias provide extended garden interest when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Breeding Potential: Enthusiasts can enjoy breeding dahlias to produce new varieties with unique characteristics.
- Community Engagement: Dahlias are often showcased in exhibitions and garden clubs, providing opportunities for social engagement and learning.
- Garden Design: Dahlias are versatile for garden design, fitting into borders, beds, and containers.
- Recreational Gardening: The cultivation of dahlias can provide a relaxing and rewarding hobby for gardening enthusiasts.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: Dahlias can be a preferred subject for photographers due to their intricate petals and vibrant colors, providing an opportunity for macro photography and exploration of symmetry in natural forms.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists often use dahlias as a muse for paintings, drawings, and fabric designs, capturing their detailed beauty in various artistic mediums.
- Natural Dye: The petals of dahlias can be used to create natural dyes for coloring textiles or crafting inks, offering hues that can range from subtle to vibrant.
- Wedding Decor: Dahlia flowers are a popular choice for wedding bouquets and centerpieces because of their large blooms and striking appearance.
- Garden Design: Cultivators can use dahlias like 'Ac Golden Nickles' as part of a garden feature, planting them to create patterns or to serve as focal points in landscape design.
- Educational Tool: Dahlias can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, hybridization, and the genetics of flower color and form.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of dahlias can provide an attractive and unique garnish for gourmet dishes, adding a splash of color and elegance to the presentation of meals.
- Floral Competitions: Dahlias are a favorite among growers for entering into floral shows and competitions, showcasing the grower's skill in cultivating prize-winning specimens.
- Theme Events: As a flower with a large variety in color and form, dahlias can be used for themed parties or events, setting the mood with their vibrant blooms.
- Craft Projects: Dried dahlia petals and heads can be used in crafting projects such as in the creation of potpourri, natural confetti, or as elements in papermaking.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlia 'AC Golden Nickles' with its double blooms and bright presence, is often associated with grace and poise, making it a symbol of one’s commitment to stand out with dignity in the crowd.
- Creativity: The complex structure and vibrant pattern of the dahlia flower represent creative spirit and the desire to embrace new adventures and ideas.
- Change and Transformation: As dahlias bloom in an array of colors and shapes, they symbolize change and diversity, reminding us of our own journey through personal growth and development.
- Commitment and Bond That Lasts Forever: Since dahlias continue to bloom for extended periods, they signify a lasting bond and the commitment that endures despite challenges.
- Strength and Resourcefulness: Dahlia plants are sturdy and can bloom in a variety of conditions; this resilience makes them a sign of inner strength and the ability to thrive in adversity.
WaterDahlia 'Ac Golden Nickles', commonly known as Dahlias, should be watered deeply to ensure moisture reaches the roots, approximately two to three times a week, depending on weather conditions. It's important not to overwater, as Dahlias do not like soggy soil. A good rule of thumb is to provide about 1 gallon of water for each plant during each watering session. During hot, dry spells, watering may need to increase to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Reduce watering frequency as the weather cools to encourage tubers to harden off before dormancy.
LightDahlias thrive in a location where they receive full sun, which means at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for a Dahlia would be an area that gets early morning or late afternoon sun with some protection from the intense midday sun, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureDahlias prefer temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of just above freezing, but growth will be stunted, and flowering will be poor. Dahlias will start to suffer damage at temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, the ideal temperature condition for Dahlias is moderate, with nighttime temperatures slightly cooler than daytime.
PruningPrune Dahlias to encourage bushier growth, more blooms, and to maintain plant health. Cut or pinch off the top of the main shoot when the plant is about a foot tall to promote branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming. The best time for major pruning is early in the growing season, but maintenance pruning and deadheading can continue throughout the bloom time.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in a well-draining and fertile soil mix with a pH between 6.5 and 7. A good recipe for Dahlia 'Ac Golden Nickles' would be to mix equal parts of garden loam, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. This combination mimics their native environments, facilitating healthy growth and abundant flowering.
RepottingDahlias, including the variety 'Ac Golden Nickles', should be repotted annually. The best time to repot is in the spring, just before the new growth starts. This yearly repotting accommodates their growth and allows the gardener to refresh the soil, ensuring nutrients are available for the plant's vigorous growth during the blooming season.
Humidity & MistingDahlias such as 'Ac Golden Nickles' prefer moderate humidity levels. While being adaptable to a range of conditions, they perform best when the air humidity ranges from 40-60%. They do not require exceptionally high humidity, thus making them suitable for a variety of climates provided that they are kept adequately watered.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, regular watering, and stake tall varieties.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, stake if needed, fertile soil, regular watering.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Dahlias, including the variety 'AC Golden Nickles' (which appears to be inaccurately spelled or a less known cultivar; assuming it might refer to a double-flowered type), starts from tuber planting in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The tubers sprout stems and leaves, and the plant begins vegetative growth, which includes developing a strong root system and lush foliage. Throughout the summer, Dahlias like 'AC Golden Nickles' enter the flowering stage, blooming with large, showy double flowers that attract pollinators and make them popular in gardens and as cut flowers. After flowering, in autumn, the plant begins to yellow and die back as temperatures drop and the growing season ends. Gardeners often lift the tubers out of the ground before the first frost to store them overwinter in a cool, dry place. The stored tubers are then replanted the following spring, continuing the plant's life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Dahlias like 'AC Golden Nickles' is through tuber division. This is best done in the spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge from the tubers. Carefully divide the tuber clump to ensure that each section has at least one eye, which is a growth point from which new shoots will emerge. Cut the tubers with a sharp, clean knife and allow the cut surface to dry and form a callus for a day or two to reduce the risk of rot. Plant the divided tubers about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep in well-draining soil, making sure the eyes are facing upwards. With proper care, the tubers will develop into healthy Dahlia plants that will bloom in the following season.
