Dahlia Dahlia 'Dovegrove' (Sin)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Dovegrove' showcases a stunning display of floral beauty, being a striking cultivar renowned for its ornamental characteristics. The plant bears a wealth of flowers that are typically known for their layered petals which form a dense, almost spherical floral head. The petals can range in color from a soft, milky white to a subtle blush, often with subtle hints of color at the edges, creating a gentle gradient effect that adds depth and allure. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Dovegrove' is equally impressive, comprising of lush green leaves that are well-proportioned and provide a striking contrast to the pristine beauty of the blooms. These leaves are typically rich and deep green, creating a backdrop that makes the flowers stand out even further. The stems of the plant are sturdy enough to support the weighty flower heads, which bloom with a sense of robustness and vitality. The overall appearance of the Dahlia 'Dovegrove' is one of elegance and class, emitting an air of sophistication in any garden setting. It has the capacity to captivate admirers with its exquisite charm and is often a beloved addition to ornamental gardens for its regal and refined aesthetics.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Dovegrove'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'Dovegrove' variety, are not toxic to humans. They are generally considered safe and do not pose a risk if touched or ingested. Therefore, there are no associated symptoms of poisoning from Dahlias, as they are not poisonous plants.
To pets
Similarly to humans, Dahlias are also non-toxic to pets. Ingesting parts of the Dahlia 'Dovegrove' should not cause any harm or result in poisoning symptoms in pets such as dogs or cats. Consequently, pet owners do not typically need to worry about Dahlia toxicity with their animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
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- Ornamental Value: Dahlias are well-known for their stunning and vibrant blooms which add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Variety of Colors: Dahlias like 'Dovegrove' come in a range of colors, providing gardeners with numerous design options.
- Long Blooming Season: These plants have a lengthy flowering period, ensuring colorful displays from midsummer until the first frosts.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which support the local ecosystem.
- Cut Flowers: Dahlia flowers are excellent for cutting and often used in floral arrangements due to their longevity and beauty.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Garden Focal Points: With their impressive size and flower structure, Dahlia 'Dovegrove' can serve as a dramatic focal point in a flower bed or border.
- Container Gardening: Dahlias can be successfully grown in pots, allowing for their beauty to be enjoyed on patios and balconies.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias like 'Dovegrove' can be used as natural dyes due to their vibrant colors, making them perfect for coloring fabrics or art projects.
- Pressed dahlia flowers can be used in scrapbooking or to create personalized greeting cards and invitations for special occasions.
- The structured form of dahlia blooms can inspire patterns in architectural design or in decorative elements within home decor.
- Dahlia petals can be used in potpourri mixes to add color and when combined with fragrant herbs, they contribute to the overall aroma.
- Dahlia tubers are actually edible when cooked properly and have been historically used as a food source in some cultures.
- Large dahlia flowers can be used as natural bowls to hold small items or as part of an eco-friendly table setting.
- Dahlia blooms can serve as a muse for artists and photographers looking for intricate patterns, symmetry, and vibrant colors to capture in their work.
- In fashion, the shapes and colors of dahlias can inspire textile prints and motifs for clothing and accessory design.
- Handmade paper can be embedded with dahlia petals for a decorative effect, ideal for creating unique stationery or gift wrap.
- During events or holidays, dahlias can be floated in water bowls as part of elaborate centerpieces to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Commitment and Bond That Lasts Forever: The Dahlia 'Dovegrove' symbolizes a lifelong commitment or a bond that is intended to last forever, reflecting its sturdy structure and the fortitude to bloom year after year.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: With its myriad of colors and flower forms, the dahlia represents diversity and the unique qualities of each individual, encouraging people to embrace their differences.
- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlias carry an air of sophistication and dignity, often used in floral arrangements to convey a sense of grace and elegance.
- Creativity and Inspiration: As a flower that stands out for its beauty and variety, the dahlia is also associated with creativity, suggesting an encouragement for people to let their imagination flourish.
- Positive Change and Transition: Though dahlias bloom for a relatively short period, they are often seen as a symbol of change and the ability to gracefully adapt to life's transitions.
- Inner Strength: The robust nature of the dahlia, particularly its ability to grow in diverse climates, reflects inner strength, resilience, and the capacity to thrive in challenging conditions.
- Warning and Betrayal: In some traditions, dahlias can carry a negative connotation, symbolizing a warning of betrayal or deception, possibly due to their complex structure.
WaterDahlias should be watered deeply, meaning the water should reach the roots rather than just wetting the surface. For 'Dovegrove' dahlias, it's best to provide a deep watering two to three times per week, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, this may increase to every other day. Apply water directly to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, as damp leaves can lead to fungal diseases. A good rule of thumb is to provide about one gallon of water per week, adjusted for rainfall and temperature. Water in the morning to allow any moisture on the foliage to dry before evening.
LightDahlias, including the 'Dovegrove' variety, perform best in full sun. The ideal spot for this plant is an area that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate some light shade, particularly during the hottest part of the day, but too much shade can lead to spindly growth and reduced blooming.
TemperatureDahlia 'Dovegrove' prefers temperatures between 60 and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 50°F, but cold temperatures can impede growth and flowering. The maximum temperature this dahlia can tolerate is around 90°F, beyond which it might require shading and extra water to prevent stress. Protect dahlias from frost, as it can kill the plant.
PruningPruning dahlias like 'Dovegrove' is done to promote bushier growth and more blooms, as well as to remove spent flowers and any dead or diseased tissue. Deadheading, or removing old flowers, should be done regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage continued flowering. Cut back the stems to a set of leaves to stimulate new bud growth. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias require a well-draining soil mix with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.0. A mixture of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Regularly add compost to enrich the soil and support robust growth.
RepottingDahlias should be repotted every year in the spring after the last frost when the tubers begin to sprout. This is because the tubers grow in size annually and require fresh soil to prevent disease and to provide nutrients for the growing season.
Humidity & MistingDahlias thrive in a garden environment with moderate humidity. They do not require high humidity, and excessively moist conditions can lead to diseases like powdery mildew, so aim for a balance typical of outdoor ambient humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place dahlias near a sunny window and rotate for even growth.
Outdoor
Plant dahlias in a sunny spot and protect from strong wind.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Dovegrove' starts its life from tubers planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. The tubers sprout and develop into bushy, herbaceous perennial plants that can reach up to 4 feet tall. The plant enters a rapid vegetative growth stage, where leaves and stems expand, preparing for blooming. Flowering occurs in midsummer to early fall, showcasing its showy, colorful blooms that vary in size and shape. After blooming, as temperatures drop and daylight decreases, Dahlias enter a period of dormancy where the above-ground foliage dies back and the plant survives off the stored energy in its tubers underground. The tubers can be dug up, stored during winter, and replanted the following spring, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the Dahlia `Dovegrove`, also commonly known as a Dahlia, is through division of tubers, typically carried out in spring just before the growing season starts when soil temperatures reach about 60°F (approximately 15.5°C). To propagate by division, gently lift the clump of tubers from the ground after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. Using a sharp, clean knife, divide the tuber clump, making sure that each section has at least one eye, which is a growth point from where new shoots can emerge. Once divided, allow the cut surfaces to dry and callus over for a day or two to prevent rot. Finally, plant the individual tubers at a depth of 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) in well-draining soil, ensuring the eyes are facing upwards, and space them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 46 to 61 centimeters) apart to provide ample room for growth.
