Dahlia 'Classic Poème' Dahlia 'Classic Poème' (PBR) (Misc)

Water

Dahlias require a consistent watering schedule to thrive, especially during the growing season. For Dahlia 'Classic Poème', you should water the plant two to three times a week, making sure to soak the soil thoroughly. Aim to provide about 1 to 2 gallons per week, depending on weather conditions; more if it's very hot, and less if there's been substantial rainfall. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases. During the dormant season, typically in winter, reduce watering significantly to prevent bulb rot.

Light

Dahlias prefer full sun to bloom well, so place Dahlia 'Classic Poème' in a location where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that provides morning sunlight and some afternoon shade can be beneficial in very hot climates to prevent the flowers and foliage from scorching. Avoid too much shade, as it can result in fewer blooms and leggy plants.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for growing a dahlia like 'Classic Poème' is between 60°F and 70°F. Dahlias are sensitive to cold temperatures and should not be subjected to temperatures below 50°F as it can damage the plant. They can tolerate up to about 90°F, but it's crucial to provide them with enough water during hot weather to keep the tubers cool.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias, including the 'Classic Poème', is important to promote robust growth and bountiful blooms. Pinch back the main stem when the plant is about 16 inches tall to encourage branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming. The best time to prune is during active growth season and when dead flowers or excess foliage can be removed to improve plant appearance and health.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer a well-draining soil mix with fertile loam or sandy soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. The best pH range for Dahlias is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.5 and 7.0. Regular fertilization during the growing season will help ensure robust blooms.

Repotting

Dahlias generally need to be repotted every year, especially if grown in pots, as they form tubers that can outgrow their space. The best time to repot is in the spring when the danger of frost has passed and before new growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias thrive best in moderate humidity conditions but are relatively adaptable. They do not require a high humidity environment and can tolerate the drier air, making them suitable for outdoor garden environments where the humidity level is not controlled.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and rotate for even growth.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-draining soil, protect from high winds.

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Classic Poème' begins its life as a tuber, planted in the spring after the last frosts have passed. It quickly sprouts stems and leaves as the soil warms, utilizing stored energy in the tuber. The plant then enters a vegetative growth stage, during which its foliage expands and it develops a robust root system. Following this, it enters the blooming stage in early to mid-summer, producing its first flowers, which continue to appear until the first frosts of autumn. After blooming, as temperatures drop, the plant's above-ground growth starts to die back and it enters dormancy; the tubers remain underground where they survive the winter. With the return of warmer weather the following spring, the cycle begins anew as the tubers send up fresh growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The Dahlia 'Classic Poème' can be propagated by dividing the tubers of a mature plant, which is the most popular method for propagating dahlias. This should be done in the spring after the last frost when the soil is warm, usually when the temperatures consistently stay above 60°F (about 15-16°C). The tubers should be carefully dug up and gently separated, making sure that each division has at least one eye, or growth point. The cut surfaces are often allowed to dry for a day before replanting to prevent rot. Divisions can then be planted directly into the garden, spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (around 45-60 cm), and with the eyes facing upwards, at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm). This method allows the plant to continue its growth cycle and produce flowers identical to the parent plant during the growing season.