Dahlia Dahlia 'Garden Party' (C)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Garden Party' is a strikingly beautiful flower characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate petal arrangements that give it a very decorative appearance. The blossoms of this plant are large and showy, often resembling a burst of fancy fireworks with their layered petals. The petals themselves are typically elongated and might exhibit a combination of colors ranging from deep purples and blues to bright whites and yellows, sometimes with the edges of the petals having a different hue, creating a delightful contrast. The center of the flower is often a contrasting color, adding to its eye-catching nature. The foliage of Dahlia 'Garden Party' is green, providing a lush backdrop for the magnificent blooms. The leaves are typically shaped with pointed tips and serrated edges, forming an elegant texture that complements the flamboyant flowers. These plants are popular in gardening for their bold, multi-colored flowers which bloom over a long season, making them standouts in any flower arrangement or garden display.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Garden Party'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans, meaning that the Dahlia 'Garden Party' is not poisonous. However, some individuals may experience a mild stomach upset if they ingest parts of the plant. If there have been reports of poisoning or recognized symptoms, I would provide that information here. Still, in most cases, eating dahlias, including the 'Garden Party' variety, is unlikely to result in serious harm or toxic reactions.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Garden Party,' are regarded as non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals, but it is not considered poisonous. The symptoms might include vomiting or diarrhea, but significant toxicity or dangerous health effects are not typical upon ingestion of dahlias. Pet owners should always monitor their pets and consult a veterinarian if any unusual symptoms occur after ingestion of any plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Blooms: Dahlias feature showy and colorful flowers that add a burst of brightness to any garden space.
- Extended Flowering Season: They typically bloom from midsummer until the first frosts of autumn, providing long-lasting beauty.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
- Variety of Uses: Dahlias are suitable for flower beds, borders, and are also commonly used in bouquets and floral arrangements due to their beauty and form.
- Easy to Grow: With proper care, dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate and grow in a variety of climate conditions.
- Wide Range of Sizes and Forms: Dahlia 'Garden Party' comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing gardeners to choose the best fit for their landscape design.
- Reblooming: Many dahlia varieties have the ability to rebloom multiple times in one season, which adds to their appeal as garden plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The tubers of dahlias can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of colors from earth tones to pastels depending on the mordant used.
- Dahlia petals are edible and can be used to add color and a mild spicy flavor to salads or as an elegant garnish for desserts and drinks.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be cut and used as natural straws or piping for children's blowing bubbles.
- Cut dahlias can be floated in a bowl of water to create a simple and elegant decorative centerpiece for tables.
- The sturdy stems and foliage can be used in compost piles to add green matter and help balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
- Dahlia flowers can be used in crafting, such as pressing them for inclusion in handmade paper or botanical prints.
- When dried, dahlia petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourri mixes to add fragrance and color to a room.
- Dahlia flowers can be used as a natural pest deterrent; their bright colors can attract pollinators while possibly deterring some pests.
- The strong stems of dahlias can be used to create a natural support structure for other plants in the garden.
- Dahlia flowers can be used as inspiration for artists and photographers, providing a vivid and captivating subject for their creative works.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not typically referenced in classic Feng Shui practice; however, as a flowering plant, they can be used to add color, vitality, and positive energy to an area. If one were to incorporate dahlias into Feng Shui, they should be placed in the wealth corner (southeast) or in any living space where you wish to introduce growth and new opportunities, utilizing their bright blossoms to invite an uplifting energy into the home.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia 'Garden Party' exudes a sophisticated charm, and its poised blooms are often associated with refined grace and an air of dignity.
- Commitment and Bond: Often used to symbolize a lasting commitment or an everlasting bond, dahlias are perfect for expressing sentiments of loyalty in relationships.
- Change and Variety: With its multitude of colors and diverse flower shapes, the dahlia represents change, diversity, and embracing new adventures.
- Creativity: The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the dahlia stand for innovation and ingenuity, making it a symbol for those who appreciate originality and creativity.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias often signify an inner fortitude with their robust petals and ability to bloom in a variety of conditions, symbolizing personal resilience.
WaterDahlias should be watered deeply a couple of times a week, supplying around one to two inches of water each week, particularly during dry spells. The 'Garden Party' variety, like other dahlias, prefers a deep watering that reaches the roots as opposed to frequent light sprinkles. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day and to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease. On hotter weeks, increase watering to account for the extra loss of moisture. If the top inch of soil is dry, it's time to water again, typically amounting to 0.5 to 1 gallons per plant each time.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight and the 'Garden Party' dahlia is no exception. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day to flourish. Choose a spot in your garden that is not shaded by larger plants or structures to ensure it receives ample sunlight throughout the day. If planted indoors, place them near a south-facing window where they can receive plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate climates and the 'Garden Party' does best with temperatures ranging between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can survive a minimum temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night, but growth might be hampered. Consistently hot temperatures over 75 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the plant to become heat-stressed. Ensure good air circulation around your dahlias if the temperature gets warmer.
PruningPruning dahlias like the 'Garden Party' promotes better airflow and larger blooms. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant reaches about 16 inches tall to encourage bushier growth. Throughout the growing season, regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back the plant after the first frost has blackened the foliage, which is also the best time for pruning before digging up and storing tubers for the winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias like well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Garden Party' consists of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and sand or perlite. Adding compost or well-rotted manure provides essential nutrients.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Garden Party', should be repotted annually. They are typically lifted and divided after the first frost in the fall and stored over the winter, then replanted in the spring.
Humidity & MistingDahlias, such as the 'Garden Party', prefer a moderate humidity level. They perform well outdoors in the natural humidity found in most temperate climates without the need for additional humidifying measures.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Dahlia 'Garden Party' in bright light, with good airflow and support.
Outdoor
Plant Dahlia 'Garden Party' in full sun, enrich soil and ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Garden Party' begins its life as a tuber planted after the last frost in spring when the ground is warm; this tuber stage is critical for storing energy for the plant's growth. Upon planting, the tubers sprout and produce shoots that grow into sturdy stems and foliage, representing the vegetative stage where the plant accumulates biomass. As the plant matures during the growing season, it enters the budding stage, where flower buds develop and eventually bloom into the characteristic vibrant flowers of the Dahlia. Following pollination, which can be performed by insects or gardeners if done manually, the plant may produce seeds, although Dahlias are often propagated by dividing tubers rather than seeds. After the flowering stage, the plant enters senescence towards the end of the growing season, where leaves and stems begin to wither as the plant prepares for dormancy. With the onset of colder weather, the Dahlia 'Garden Party' dies back to its tubers, which can be dug up and stored during winter to be replanted the following spring, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Dahlia 'Garden Party' is through division of tubers, which should ideally be performed in spring just as new growth begins from the tubers. To propagate dahlias by division, dig up the entire clump of tubers after the first frost has killed the foliage, but before the ground freezes. Wash off the soil and cut the tubers apart with a sharp knife, ensuring each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from which new growth emerges. Allow the cuts to dry and callus over for a few days to prevent rot. Once callused, plant the tuber pieces about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 cm) deep in well-draining soil, with the eyes facing upwards. With proper care, the divided tubers will develop into healthy Dahlia plants.
