Dahlia Dahlia Happy Single Princess = 'Hs Princess' (PBR) (Happy Single Series) (Sin)

Water

Dahlia 'Happy Single Princess' should be watered deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once or twice a week during the growing season. Water directly at the base of the plant to keep moisture off the foliage and flowers. It's important to avoid overwatering as Dahlias do not like waterlogged soil. A good soaking could range from 0.5 to 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on the size and the weather conditions. During the hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent moisture.

Light

Dahlias thrive in full sun, so 'Happy Single Princess' should be planted in a location where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Adequate light is crucial for optimal flowering and plant health. If grown indoors or in partial shade, the plant may produce fewer flowers and have a leggy growth.

Temperature

Dahlia 'Happy Single Princess' prefers a temperature range of about 60°F to 75°F for optimal growth. It can tolerate a maximum temperature up to around 90°F and a minimum temperature just above freezing, but sustained cold or frost can damage or kill the plant. To ensure vigorous growth and bloom, protect the plant from extreme temperatures, especially harsh winter cold.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias like 'Happy Single Princess' promotes bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch off the growing tips when the plant is about a foot tall to encourage branching. Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and cut back the plant to the ground after the first frost in the fall. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season as needed.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias require well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Happy Single Princess' includes loamy garden soil, compost, peat moss, and perlite to enhance drainage. Regularly enrich the soil with organic matter to promote healthy growth.

Repotting

Dahlias should be repotted annually in the spring. Dahlia 'Happy Single Princess' tubers need fresh soil each year to prevent disease and provide nutrients. Replace the potting mix and ensure the container provides ample room for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Happy Single Princess' thrive in moderate humidity levels. They do well in typical outdoor conditions. Overly humid conditions can lead to fungal issues, so ensure good air circulation if grown in a humid area.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, consistent watering, and good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Dahlias, including the Happy Single Princess, begin their lifecycle as tubers planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed adequately. Upon planting, they start a vegetative growth stage wherein shoots emerge from the tubers, developing into stems and leaves. As the plant matures, it enters a blooming stage during the summer months, producing distinctive flowers with a single row of petals surrounding a central disc, usually attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the Dahlia may produce seeds, although many hybrids are grown exclusively from tubers due to their specific characteristics. As temperatures drop in autumn, the above-ground foliage of the Dahlia dies back, signaling the beginning of dormancy for the tubers. Throughout winter, the tubers remain dormant underground, ready to restart the lifecycle when conditions become favorable in the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Dahlia Happy Single Princess is through dividing tuberous roots. This is typically done in spring when the risk of frost has passed and soil temperatures have risen. To propagate, first carefully lift the clump of dahlia tubers from the ground using a fork, minimizing damage to the tubers. Wash the soil off and allow them to dry. Look for natural divisions and cut the tubers with a sharp, sterile knife, ensuring each division has at least one eye, which is a point of new growth. Leave the cuts to dry and callus over for a day or two to prevent rotting. Once this is done, the tuberous roots can be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, with the eyes facing upward, and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.