Dahlia Dahlia 'David Howard' (D)

Water

Dahlias need to be watered regularly, but it's important to avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot. For 'David Howard' or any other dahlia variety, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. During active growth in the spring and summer, water the plants with about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Adjust the amount depending on rainfall and check the soil moisture level frequently. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water dahlia plants two to three times a week to maintain proper moisture levels.

Light

Dahlias, including 'David Howard', flourish in a location where they receive full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. The best spot for your dahlia is in an area that provides morning sunlight and protection from the intense afternoon sun in hotter climates, though they can tolerate full sun all day in milder regions.

Temperature

Dahlias like 'David Howard' prefer temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive within a range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They are sensitive to frost, with minimum survival temperatures just above freezing. Ideal growing conditions occur when nighttime temperatures are cooler, which helps to enhance their blooming.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias like 'David Howard' is essential for encouraging bushy growth and abundant flowering. Pinch out the growing tips once the plant reaches about 16 inches in height and remove any weak or excess shoots. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Prune more extensively at the end of the season, once the foliage has been blackened by frost, to prepare for winter storage.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Dahlia 'David Howard', commonly known as Dahlia, should be well-draining and fertile with a slight acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A combination of loamy soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure will promote healthy growth. It's important to ensure the soil is loose and not prone to waterlogging as Dahlias are susceptible to root rot.

Repotting

Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'David Howard', generally don't require frequent repotting as they are not typically grown as permanent container plants. However, the tubers should be lifted and divided every 2 to 3 years in the spring to rejuvenate the plant and prevent overcrowding, which often corresponds with repotting needs.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias, like the Dahlia 'David Howard', thrive in moderate humidity levels. They do not require special humidity conditions as long as they are planted in well-draining soil and provided with sufficient water. Outdoor humidity levels that mimic their native environments are adequate, avoiding overly arid or excessively damp conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure soil drainage.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-draining soil, regular feeding, and deadheading.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Dahlia 'David Howard' begins with the germination of seeds or the sprouting of tubers in the spring, where they are planted in well-drained soil in a location with full to partial sun exposure. Once sprouted, the plant grows rapidly, forming a sturdy stem and a lush foliage of green leaves. As it matures in the early summer, it begins to develop flower buds, which will bloom into the characteristic vibrant orange flowers of the David Howard Dahlia. After the flowering period in late summer to fall, the plant will start to die back as temperatures drop, signaling the end of the growing season. In regions with cold winters, the tubers are typically dug up and stored in a cool, dry place to overwinter before being replanted the next spring. If undisturbed and in suitable climates, the tubers can remain in the ground, where they will enter a period of dormancy before starting the life cycle anew with the return of warm weather.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Dahlia 'David Howard' is typically propagated through division of its tubers, which is the most popular method due to its effectiveness and simplicity. The best time for dividing Dahlia tubers is in the spring, when the new buds begin to emerge and the risk of frost has passed. To propagate, a gardener should carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground after the foliage has been cut back. Each division should include at least one eye or bud, which will grow into a new plant. The divisions should be made with a clean, sharp knife and any damaged tubers should be discarded. Once the tubers are divided, they can be planted directly into the garden, ideally in a sunny location with well-drained soil, at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters). The soil should then be watered gently to settle it around the tubers.