Dahlia 'Glorie van Heemstede' Dahlia 'Glorie van Heemstede' (WL)

Water

Dahlias require a consistent watering schedule to thrive, typically needing water two to three times a week, depending on weather conditions. An ideal approach is deep watering to encourage strong root development. You should provide dahlias with about one to two gallons of water per week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It's important to water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During peak bloom time, dahlias may need more frequent watering to support their lush flowers.

Light

Dahlias thrive in a location that receives full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The variety 'Glorie van Heemstede' will perform best when planted in a spot that is protected from strong afternoon heat, yet still gets ample morning sun. Such conditions will ensure vibrant blooms and healthy growth throughout the growing season.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer a temperate climate and do not respond well to extreme temperatures. 'Glorie van Heemstede' can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for dahlias is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Dahlias are sensitive to frost, so it's crucial to plant them after the danger of frost has passed and to dig up tubers before the first frost in fall.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias, like 'Glorie van Heemstede', encourages more prolific blooming and a bushier plant habit. Once the plant reaches about a foot in height, pinch off the top bud to promote branching. Throughout the growing season, regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. The best time to prune is in the late evening or early morning when the plant is not stressed by heat.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with an ideal pH range between 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Glorie van Heemstede' would include equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand to aid drainage. Add compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and enhance soil structure.

Repotting

Dahlias, including Dahlia 'Glorie van Heemstede', should generally be repotted annually. The best time to repot is in the spring when new growth begins. It's also a good practice to divide the tubers every 2 to 3 years to maintain plant vigor and flower production.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like Dahlia 'Glorie van Heemstede' enjoy moderate humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level that mimics their native environments, usually around 40-60%, which is typical for outdoor conditions in many growing areas.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in a bright spot, ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, regular deadheading.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Glorie van Heemstede' begins its life cycle with the germination of tubers in spring when soil temperatures reach about 60°F (15°C). After planting, the shoots emerge and the plant begins a period of rapid vegetative growth, developing stems and leaves. As the plant matures through late spring and early summer, it starts to produce distinctive large and vibrant yellow blooms that attract pollinators. Following the flowering phase, which can last until fall, the plant sets seeds, although many growers prefer to propagate through division of tubers. As temperatures cool and the first frost approaches, the above-ground portion of the Dahlia dies back, while the tubers enter a period of dormancy underground. The tubers can be overwintered in the ground in warmer climates, or dug up and stored in cool, frost-free conditions before being replanted the following spring to restart the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating the 'Glorie van Heemstede' Dahlia, which belongs to the Waterlily (WL) classification of dahlias, is through division of tubers. This is typically done in the spring after the last frost when the soil is warm enough for tuber growth, around 60°F (15°C). Each tuber clump should be carefully divided to ensure that every section has at least one eye, or bud, from which a new plant will sprout. The tubers can be cut apart with a sharp, sterilized knife. After division, the cut surfaces should be allowed to dry for a day or two to form a callus, which helps to prevent rot. The prepared tubers are then planted about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep in well-draining soil, with the eye facing upward and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart, to accommodate for the plant's growth.