Dahlia Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover' (Sin)

Water

Dahlias, including 'Bishop of Dover', require consistent moisture and should be watered two to three times per week, especially during dry spells. Water the plant at its base to keep water off the foliage which can help prevent fungal diseases; aim to provide about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each week. During particularly hot or windy weather, you might need to water more frequently to ensure the soil stays evenly moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering as Dahlias are prone to rot in waterlogged soil. If possible, use mulch to help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Light

Dahlias, such as 'Bishop of Dover', thrive in a spot that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours each day. They can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates, but full sun is best for robust growth and optimal flowering. Avoid locations where buildings, trees, or other structures might cast too much shade on the plant.

Temperature

Dahlias including the 'Bishop of Dover' prefer temperatures in the range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night, and should not be exposed to temperatures over 95 degrees Fahrenheit as it can stress the plant. The ideal growing conditions for Dahlias are warm days and cooler nights.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias, including the 'Bishop of Dover', is important to promote healthy growth and more blooms. Remove spent flower heads to encourage continuous blooming and snip off damaged or diseased stems to maintain plant health. For larger flowers, you can prune the side buds leaving only the central bud to grow. Pruning is best done throughout the blooming season, from midsummer until the end of the flowering period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of around 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for dahlias such as 'Bishop of Dover' can be made with equal parts garden soil, peat moss or compost, and perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Regular amendment with organic matter is beneficial to maintain soil fertility.

Repotting

Dahlias generally do not need to be repotted often as they are typically grown as annuals. 'Bishop of Dover' should be lifted and stored during the winter in colder climates and can be replanted in the spring. Dividing tubers every 2-3 years in the spring can rejuvenate and boost plant vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Bishop of Dover' prefer moderate humidity levels, typically between 40-60%. They thrive in outdoor conditions where the humidity is naturally regulated. High humidity can increase the risk of fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation if grown in a more humid environment.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist but not wet.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun after last frost; ensure soil is well-drained.

• Hardiness zone

  Dahlias 'Bishop of Dover' are suitable for USDA zones 8-11.

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover' begins its life as a tuber, which is typically planted after the threat of frost has passed in the spring. The tuber sprouts to form a young plant, which develops a sturdy stem and an extensive root system. As it grows, this dahlia produces distinctive dark foliage and begins to bloom, often from midsummer until the first frost, showcasing its vibrant, single or semi-double pale pink flowers. After flowering, if the blooms are deadheaded regularly, the plant can continue to produce flowers and sustain its growth cycle. As the weather cools and frost arrives, the plant will die back and enter dormancy, where the tubers can be dug up and stored during the winter in a cool, frost-free place. The following spring, the tubers can be replanted, thus continuing the dahlia's life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover', widely known simply as Dahlia, can be propagated most commonly through division. This method involves separating the tuberous roots in the late winter or early spring just before new growth begins. When dividing the tubers, each section should have at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber where the new plant will sprout. Carefully cut the tuber into sections using a sharp, clean knife, ensuring each piece has at least one eye. After the division, it is advisable to let the cut surfaces dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. The divided tubers can then be planted about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart. This method allows for a quick and effective way to increase the number of Dahlias in the garden and maintain the specific qualities of the 'Bishop of Dover' variety.