Dahlia Dahlia 'Clearview Louise' (S-c)

Water

Dahlias, including 'Clearview Louise', should be watered deeply at their base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Initially, after planting the tubers, water the soil to settle it around the tubers, but then wait until the sprouts have appeared before beginning regular watering. Once the plants are established, they generally need about an inch of water per week, which can come from rainfall or supplemental watering. Increase the frequency during hot, dry periods to maintain consistent soil moisture. Water early in the morning to allow any excess water on the leaves to evaporate throughout the day.

Light

Dahlias such as 'Clearview Louise' thrive best in full sun exposure, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place the plant in a location where it will receive unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Partial shade in the hottest part of the afternoon can be beneficial in areas with very intense sun but is not necessary.

Temperature

Dahlias, including 'Clearview Louise', prefer warm conditions and are sensitive to frost. They perform best in a temperature range between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate higher temperatures as long as adequate moisture is provided. They should not be planted until the soil temperature has reached at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit and there is no risk of frost, which could damage or kill the plant. Dahlias can survive up to a maximum temperature of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit and a minimum just above freezing.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias such as 'Clearview Louise' is vital for promoting bushy growth and more blooms. Pinch out the top growth above the third or fourth set of leaves when the plant is about a foot tall to encourage branching. Deadhead regularly to remove spent blooms and encourage new ones. The best time for major pruning and cutting back is before the first frost when you are digging up the tubers for overwintering.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Clearview Louise' is one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. The preferred soil pH for dahlias is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0. Regularly adding compost to the soil can help maintain its fertility and structure.

Repotting

Dahlias, including 'Clearview Louise', typically do not need to be repotted as they are often grown as annuals. Instead, their tubers are usually lifted and stored during winter and then replanted the following spring. If grown as perennials in suitable climates, dividing the tubers every 2-3 years in the spring is recommended to maintain vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Clearview Louise' prefer moderate humidity levels. They thrive in outdoor conditions where the humidity is natural and not too high. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants can help mitigate any issues that might arise from humidity levels that are too high. Generally, typical outdoor humidity is adequate for these plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, keep soil moist but well-drained.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, fertile soil, regular watering, stake stems.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Dahlia 'Clearview Louise' begins with seed germination when the soil temperature and moisture conditions are optimal, which is usually in the spring. The sprouted seed develops into a seedling, which emerges above the soil surface and begins to form true leaves. As it grows, the plant enters the vegetative stage, where it focuses on producing foliage and stems, gradually forming a robust and bushy plant. After it matures, the Dahlia 'Clearview Louise' enters the flowering stage in the summer or early fall, producing attractive and showy blooms that can continue until the first frost when proper deadheading is practiced. Once the flowering period is over, the plant prepares for dormancy; the above-ground part dies back with the onset of colder temperatures, but the tubers survive underground. In the following spring, these tubers can be divided and replanted, giving rise to new plants that will continue the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Clearview Louise' is through division of tubers, which is typically done in spring when the plant is beginning to break dormancy. To propagate by division, you should carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground after all danger of frost has passed. Wash the soil off the tubers and let them dry for a day. Look for natural dividing lines where the tuberous roots can be separated while ensuring that each section has at least one eye, which is a point from which new growth will sprout. Using a sharp, clean knife, cut the tubers apart, and let the cut surfaces callus over for a few days to prevent rot. Once callused, the tubers can be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) deep, keeping the eye facing upwards.