Fleurel Dahlia Dahlia 'Fleurel' (PBR) (Fim)

Water

Dahlias should be watered deeply once or twice a week, providing enough water to penetrate the soil to a depth of at least an inch. The exact amount depends on climate conditions, but as a guideline, approximately 1 gallon of water per plant each week is suitable during the growing season. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in the fall as the plants begin to die back in preparation for winter dormancy.

Light

Dahlias thrive best in a location with full sun exposure, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place them in a spot where they can enjoy the morning sunlight and are protected from intense afternoon heat, if possible. Avoid heavy shade as it can cause the plants to grow leggy and reduce flowering.

Temperature

Dahlias grow best in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive a range of temperatures from a low of about 50 degrees up to a high of 90 degrees, but prolonged exposure outside this range can stress the plants. Dahlia tubers should not be planted until all danger of frost has passed, as they are sensitive to cold temperatures.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias, also known as deadheading, encourages continued blooming and should be done regularly as flowers fade. Cut the spent flowers back to the next strong set of leaves. Towards the end of the growing season, usually in early autumn, stop deadheading to allow plants to focus on developing tubers for next season's growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH around 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlias like 'Fleurel' includes a combination of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to improve drainage. Adding compost or well-rotted manure helps to enrich the soil and provide nutrients for optimal growth.

Repotting

Dahlias, including the 'Fleurel', should be repotted annually. They are typically grown from tubers which are planted in the spring after the last frost and lifted out of the soil before the first freeze in fall to be stored over winter. When repotting the following spring, use fresh soil to replenish nutrients.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Fleurel' prefer average humidity levels and do not require special humidity considerations. They thrive in outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants helps prevent issues with high humidity such as fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in well-lit area, ensure pot drainage, protect from drafts.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-draining soil, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Fleurel', commonly known as Dahlia, begins its life cycle as a tuber planted in well-drained soil after the risk of frost has passed. Upon sprouting, the plant enters a vegetative stage where leaves and stems develop rapidly, given adequate sun, water, and nutrients. As the Dahlia grows, it enters the budding phase where flower buds form at the tips of the stems. Following this, the plant blooms, revealing the characteristic large, creamy white flowers of the 'Fleurel' variety during the summer and into early fall. After flowering, as temperatures drop, the Dahlia completes its life cycle by wilting and becoming dormant; the tubers can be left in the ground or dug up and stored for replanting the following season. Annual pruning and division of the tubers encourage rejuvenation and a healthy start for the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Dahlia 'Fleurel' is through division of the tubers, which is best done in the spring when the plant starts to sprout and the danger of frost has passed. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground using a garden fork. Gently brush off the soil and separate the tubers, ensuring that each section has at least one eye, from which new growth will sprout. The tubers can then be planted in well-drained soil at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced approximately 18 inches (45 centimeters) apart. Water the newly planted tubers thoroughly to help establish them. This method promotes a high success rate and allows the Dahlia 'Fleurel' to mature and bloom in the same growing season.