Dahlia Dahlia 'Figurine' (WL)

Water

Dahlias require consistent moisture and should be watered deeply 2 to 3 times a week, depending on weather conditions. The goal is to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. For a dahlia plant like 'Figurine', provide about 1 to 2 gallons per plant during each watering session. Be sure to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency of watering to prevent stress on the plant.

Light

Dahlias thrive in full sun, so the 'Figurine' variety should be placed in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid planting them in areas that are shaded for most of the day, as dahlias require lots of light to bloom well. However, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent overheating.

Temperature

The dahlia 'Figurine' prefers temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F. Dahlias can survive short periods outside of this range, with a minimum survival temperature around 50°F and a maximum of about 90°F. However, consistently exposing dahlias to temperatures above or below these thresholds can stress the plants and affect their blooming and growth.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias is essential for encouraging bushier growth and more blooms. For 'Figurine' dahlias, pinch out the growing tips once the plant reaches about 16 inches tall. Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias require well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlias like 'Figurine' can be made by blending equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. Adding compost to the mix will provide nutrients that are essential for the growth of the plant.

Repotting

Dahlias, including the 'Figurine' variety, are typically grown from tubers and do not require frequent repotting. Instead, plant the tubers in the spring after the threat of frost has passed, and dig them up for storage in the fall after the first frost.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Figurine' prefer moderate humidity levels. They thrive outdoors where the natural humidity provides a suitable environment, but they do not have specific humidity requirements indoors as long as they are watered regularly and the soil is well-draining.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in well-lit area, use pot with drainage, keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant after frost risk, full sun, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Dahlia 'Figurine' begins with a tuber, which is planted in the spring after the last frost, in fertile, well-drained soil. It germinates and grows into a young plant, developing a strong stem and leaves through photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it undergoes vegetative growth until it reaches the flowering stage, where it produces vibrant blooms usually from midsummer until the first fall frost. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, which can be collected for propagation, but Dahlia 'Figurine' is more commonly propagated through division of the tubers. As the colder weather arrives, the above-ground part of the plant dies back, and the tubers enter a dormant phase through the winter. The tubers can be overwintered in the ground in warmer climates or dug up and stored in a cool, frost-free place until they are replanted the following spring to start the cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Winter - Spring

• The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Figurine' is through division, which is ideally done in spring just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully lift the tuber clumps out of the ground after the foliage has died back and the soil is workable. Gently brush off the soil and cut the tubers apart with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber where a new shoot will emerge. The cut surfaces should be allowed to dry and callous over for a couple of days to prevent rot. Then, the divided tubers are replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart, depending on the variety. This simple method ensures that each division has the potential to grow into a full, blooming plant.