Dahlia Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' (Col)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' is a stunning ornamental plant known for its vibrant and showy flowers. The blooms are the most captivating feature, showcasing a rich blend of colors that often include shades of pink, orange, and yellow. The petals are arranged in a whimsical, somewhat spikey fashion, giving the flower a full and impressive look. Each petal has smooth, slightly curved edges that taper to a point, contributing to the overall star-like appearance of the flower head. The petals emanate from a central disc, which may be a different color, drawing attention to the intricate patterns that make Dahlias such a favorite among gardeners and floral enthusiasts. The foliage of 'Dream Seeker' offers a lush backdrop for the dramatic blooms, with leaves that are typically a deep green. The leaves have a defined shape, with serrated edges that contrast pleasingly against the softness of the flower petals. Beyond the blooms and foliage, the overall structure of Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' is upright and bushy, giving it a robust presence in any garden setting. The stems are strong and sturdy, supporting the weight of the large, eye-catching flowers. This variety of Dahlia is often celebrated for its long blooming period, with flowers that continue to captivate and add color from mid-summer until the first frosts of fall. In terms of care, the Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' appreciates a sunny spot in the garden with well-drained soil. It is a tuberous plant, meaning it grows from underground tubers which can be lifted and stored during colder months in regions with harsh winters. When in bloom, the flowers not only attract human admirers but also a host of pollinators including bees and butterflies, adding an additional layer of life and vibrancy to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Georgina
Common names
Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' (Col).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-known toxic effects from ingesting dahlias, and they are not known to cause any significant adverse reactions if handled or accidentally consumed. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion may cause some gastrointestinal discomfort due to the plant material's natural fiber content.
To pets
Dahlias are also generally considered non-toxic to pets. There are no specific toxic effects associated with the ingestion of dahlias by animals such as dogs and cats. However, as with humans, ingestion of non-food plants like dahlias can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the irritation caused by plant fibers and other non-digestible components. If a pet consumes a large amount of dahlias and shows symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Dahlias showcase vibrant and eye-catching blooms that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Variety of Colors: Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' comes in a range of colors, providing an opportunity to create colorful garden designs.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias typically offer a lengthy flowering period from summer to autumn, ensuring a long-lasting display of beauty.
- Cut Flower Use: The blooms of this dahlia are suitable for cutting and arranging in vases, adding freshness and color to indoor spaces.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide a nectar source for bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlias can be propagated through division, cuttings, or seeds, making them ideal for gardeners who like to share and multiply their plants.
- Adjustable Size: The plant can be pruned and maintained at a desired size, making it versatile for different garden sizes and spaces.
- Garden Focal Points: With their stunning blooms, dahlias serve as excellent focal points in garden designs and borders.
- Ritual and Cultural Significance: Dahlias have been used in various cultural practices and rituals, contributing to the rich history and heritage of horticulture.
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 'Dream Seeker' can be used in fabric dyeing, providing a range of colors depending on the part of the plant used.
- Large dahlias can be hollowed out to serve as natural containers for serving or displaying small items at garden parties.
- Petals of the Dahlia can be pressed and incorporated into paper-making for a decorative touch.
- When dried and treated, Dahlia stems can work as an alternative material for making eco-friendly straws.
- The bloom's intricate patterns can inspire designs for mandalas in art therapy sessions.
- Dahlia flowers can be used as natural confetti at events, being biodegradable and more eco-friendly than synthetic versions.
- With their bright and varied colors, dahlias can be used in photography as a tool to teach children about colors and plant life.
- The flower can function as a natural pest deterrent when used in companion planting due to its strong scent and vibrant flowers attracting beneficial insects.
- Dahlias can be utilized in science education as a living example to demonstrate how to measure and record growth rates in plants.
- Artists can use dahlia petals as delicate tools for painting, employing them to create unique textures and strokes on canvas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not commonly referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice; however, their vibrant blooms and colors could be used to add the fire element or to enhance beauty and expressiveness in a garden or home, aligning with Feng Shui principles that seek to balance the five elements and create harmonious surroundings.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Due to their sophisticated bloom structure and impressive presence in a garden, dahlias are often associated with elegance and dignity, symbolizing composure and a dignified grace.
- Creative Expression: The 'Dream Seeker' cultivar, with its unique and vibrant appearance, represents the courage to follow one's dreams and can symbolize the pursuit of creative expression and inspiration.
- Change and Variety: Dahlia flowers come in many forms and colors, symbolizing diversity, change, and the embracing of new adventures and experiences in life.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias, with their strong stems and full blooms that last well into autumn, can be seen as emblems of a lasting bond and a commitment to someone or something dear.
- Standing Out: The distinct and eye-catching 'Dream Seeker' dahlia can symbolize the idea of standing out from the crowd and being unique.
WaterDahlias require a consistent watering schedule, particularly during the growing season. For Dahlia 'Dream Seeker', water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil type. Use about 0.5 to 1 gallon of water per plant each time, ensuring the water penetrates deeply to reach the tuber roots. Overwatering can lead to rot, so avoid soggy soil. During the peak of summer, you might need to water more frequently, always checking soil moisture before doing so.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight, making it the ideal condition for Dahlia 'Dream Seeker'. Place your plant in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid areas with shade or filtered light to ensure the plant has enough energy for blooming.
TemperatureDahlias, including Dahlia 'Dream Seeker', favor temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F at night and tolerate a maximum of about 90°F during the day, though extended heat can stress the plant. Protect from frost by functionally not planting until the danger of frost has passed or providing protection when temperatures dip.
PruningPruning Dahlias like 'Dream Seeker' involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage further blooming and removing any damaged or diseased foliage. Prune regularly throughout the blooming season, cutting back spent flowers to the next growth bud. The best time for significant pruning is early spring, just as the new shoots appear above the ground.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of around 6.5-7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Dream Seeker' would be one part garden soil, one part peat moss or coco coir, and one part perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage.
RepottingDahlia 'Dream Seeker' doesn't require frequent repotting as it grows from tubers. Repotting is usually done annually, in the spring, as new growth begins or if the tubers outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Dream Seeker' prefer moderate humidity levels. While they can tolerate some degree of variance, maintaining humidity around 40-70% is generally conducive to their health and growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, keep soil moist, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil, ensure ample space for growth.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Dream Seeker' begins its life cycle as a tuber, which is planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The tuber germinates, producing a small shoot that emerges from the soil and develops into a sturdy stem with leaves. As it matures, the plant forms buds that blossom into the characteristic large, vibrant flowers of the Dahlia in summer to early fall. After flowering, as temperatures drop in autumn, the plant's aerial growth dies back while the tuber beneath the soil enters a period of dormancy. Gardeners typically lift and store the tubers in a cool, frost-free place over the winter to protect them from freezing. The stored tubers are then replanted the following spring to restart the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Dahlia 'Dream Seeker', also commonly known as Dahlia, is through division. This is typically done in spring when the plant is beginning to break dormancy, and the tubers start to sprout. To propagate by division, gently lift the tuber clumps from the ground after the frost has passed. Be careful not to damage the tubers and brush off any excess soil. Look for natural dividing lines where the tubers can be separated, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut the tubers apart if necessary. The divisions should then be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil with the eyes pointing upwards. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them.
