Dahlia 'Eternal Snow' Dahlia 'Eternal Snow' (PBR) (WL)

Water

Dahlias require regular watering to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering, and this holds true for the 'Eternal Snow'. Water the plant deeply to encourage deep root development, administering about 1-2 gallons of water per week, depending on weather conditions; they may require more water during particularly hot or dry spells. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out over the course of the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Always check the soil moisture before watering; the top inch should be dry to the touch. Over-watering or allowing the plant to sit in water can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage as well.

Light

Dahlias such as 'Eternal Snow' thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Choose a spot in the garden that receives ample morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of late afternoon sun, which can sometimes be too harsh. Sunlight is essential for the plant to develop strong stems and vibrant blooms.

Temperature

Dahlias, including 'Eternal Snow', prefer temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can tolerate a range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be planted after the danger of frost has passed, as cold temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the plant. It is advisable to lift and store tubers in the fall in regions where temperatures drop below freezing for winter.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias like 'Eternal Snow' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about a foot high to stimulate branching. Throughout the growing season, deadhead spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage continued blooming. Pruning is best done on a dry day to help prevent disease transmission.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Dahlia 'Eternal Snow' is a well-draining, fertile loam enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. The ideal soil pH for Dahlias should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0.

Repotting

Dahlias should be repotted annually, typically in the spring when new growth begins. If the tubers become too crowded, they can be divided and repotted into larger containers.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias prefer moderate humidity conditions. While they can tolerate a range of humidity levels, they thrive best with ambient humidity around 40-60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Dahlia in bright, indirect light and ensure pot drainage.

• Outdoor

  Choose sunny location with rich, well-draining soil for Dahlia.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Dahlia 'Eternal Snow', commonly known as White Dahlia, begins its life as a tuber that is typically planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil is warm. It starts to sprout and develop a strong root system and foliage emerges from the soil, followed by the growth of sturdy stems and lush leaves. Over time, the plant will produce distinctive, vibrant white blossoms during the summer months and into early fall, which is its blooming stage. After flowering, as temperatures drop, the White Dahlia enters a phase of dormancy in colder climates; the foliage will die back and the plant will conserve energy in its tubers underground. To ensure the tubers survive winter, they are often dug up and stored in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. In suitable climates or with proper protection, the tubers can be left in the ground to regrow the following spring, thus repeating the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Dahlia 'Eternal Snow' (PBR) (WL) is typically propagated through division, which is best done in the spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy. This is the most popular method whereby the tubers, which are a fleshy underground storage organ of the Dahlia, are divided to create new plants. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of tubers and gently shake off any excess soil. Using a sharp, clean knife, cut the tubers into sections ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a growing point from which the new dahlia shoot will emerge. The cuts should be allowed to dry and callous over for a day or two to reduce the risk of rot when they are replanted. Finally, replant the tuber sections about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep in well-draining soil, taking care not to damage the eyes. With proper care and favorable conditions, these divisions will grow into new 'Eternal Snow' dahlias, ready to add their stunning white blooms to your garden.