Dahlia Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot' (Misc/lil)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot' is a charming cultivar known for its intricate and eye-catching flowers that bring vibrant color to gardens. The blooms are the most distinguishing feature of the plant, showcasing small but profuse floral displays that come in a mixture of warm autumnal shades such as oranges, yellows, and reds, which can sometimes blend together to create a multicolored effect. The petals typically exhibit a symmetrical arrangement in multiple rows that form a pincushion-like structure, giving the flower a full and lush appearance. The petals may have slightly rolled edges, and their tips could be pointed or rounded. Coupled with the rich, green foliage, the contrast of the flower colors is often striking. Leaves are typically medium green with a standard dahlia leaf shape, which is generally ovate and may have toothed margins. Stems are sturdy enough to support the weight of the flowers, which grow in abundance throughout the blooming season. Given that Dahlias come in various forms and sizes, 'Harvest Tiny Tot' is unique with its specific type of blossoms, which adds a distinctive charm to its presence in any garden setting. The overall appearance of this plant is robust and bushy, with a generous flowering habit that creates a delightful display of color over the duration of its blooming period.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Harvest Tiny Tot Dahlia, Miniature Dahlia, Dwarf Dahlia.
Common names
Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingesting dahlias. Therefore, ingestion of the Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot' should not cause any severe symptoms of poisoning in humans. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort or irritation.
To pets
Although dahlias are not highly toxic to pets, they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms of mild poisoning in pets from eating parts of the Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot' might include vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. While the plant is not expected to cause serious illness, ingestion should still be discouraged, and a veterinarian should be consulted if a pet consumes a large amount or exhibits pronounced symptoms.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens with its bright, lively blooms.
- Versatility: Suitable for planting in beds, borders, containers, and as cut flowers, offering multiple uses in landscaping and interior decor.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which helps with the pollination of nearby plants.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being relatively easy to cultivate, making it a good choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Long Blooming Season: Provides a prolonged period of blooms from summer through frost, keeping gardens lively for an extended time.
- Varied Sizes: Available in different sizes, making it a flexible option for various garden spaces and designs.
- Breed Diversity: Comes in numerous colors and forms, allowing for personalized garden color schemes and aesthetics.
- Stress Reduction: Being around plants like Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot' can reduce stress levels and promote feelings of well-being.
- Social Interaction: Gardening with dahlias can provide opportunities for social interactions with other gardeners and enthusiasts.
- Edible Parts: Some dahlia varieties offer edible tubers or petals, adding another dimension to their utility and benefit (please note, the edibility of this specific variety should be verified).
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias, like 'Harvest Tiny Tot', can be used for natural dyeing processes due to their pigmented petals creating subtle shades.
- Dahlia tubers are known to be edible when cooked and can be used as a carbohydrate source similar to potatoes in some cultures.
- Dahlia stems can be used for plant-based crafts, such as making biodegradable straws or even as a natural conduit for floral arrangements.
- The sturdy stems of Dahlias, if dried properly, can be used in creating lightweight frameworks for small paper-mache or dried flower projects.
- Petals from Dahlias can be used to make a natural confetti for weddings or other celebrations, offering a biodegradable alternative to plastic confetti.
- When grown as a dense patch, Dahlias can serve as a habitat for beneficial insects including bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in gardens.
- Pressed Dahlia flowers can be used in art projects, such as in resin jewellery or bookmark design, providing a unique floral aesthetic.
- The hollow stems of Dahlias can be repurposed into tiny planters for succulents or air plants, creating a unique hanging garden feature.
- Boiled Dahlia water, after the tubers are cooked, can be reused to water acid-loving plants as starches released might slightly alter the pH of the soil.
- Dahlias can be incorporated into photography projects for their broad range of colors, serving as a natural backdrop or subject for botanical photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlias, with their intricate petals and stunning display, are often associated with elegance and dignity, symbolizing the grace one carries even in challenging situations.
- Change and Variety: The dahlia comes in many colors and forms, representing diversity and reminding us to embrace change positively.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as gifts, dahlias can signify a lasting bond and commitment between two people, often in a romantic context.
- Inner Strength: The robust nature of dahlias, which allows them to bloom from summer through fall, is symbolic of inner strength and the ability to stand out in the face of adversity.
- Creativity: The myriad forms and colors of dahlias inspire creativity, symbolizing the endless possibilities that can arise from a burst of inspiration.
WaterDahlias require a consistent watering schedule. 'Harvest Tiny Tot' should be watered deeply once or twice a week, providing enough water to reach the roots without causing standing water. Depending on the soil and weather conditions, this usually translates to about 1 to 2 gallons per plant for each watering session. During hot spells, water may be needed more frequently, but always allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid splashing the foliage to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, so 'Harvest Tiny Tot' should be placed in an area where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for the plant is a south-facing garden that gets plenty of light throughout the day. However, in regions with particularly hot summers, some afternoon shade can help protect the blossoms from scorching.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate to warm temperatures. 'Harvest Tiny Tot' grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as they are sensitive to cold. Ideally, the plant should be kept in an area that doesn't experience constant high winds, which can damage its stems and flowers.
PruningPruning encourages more robust growth and larger flowers in dahlias. 'Harvest Tiny Tot' should be regularly deadheaded to remove spent flowers and promote continuous blooming. Additionally, pinching or cutting back the main stem early in the growing season can lead to bushier plants with more stems and consequently more flowers. Pruning and deadheading should be done throughout the blooming season, typically from mid-summer until the first frost.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.0. A mixture of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration, ensuring that the tubers do not rot.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Harvest Tiny Tot', generally require repotting every year, typically in the spring before the growing season begins. This helps replenish soil nutrients and space for tuber expansion.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels, avoiding both overly dry and excessively moist air. Average indoor humidity is usually sufficient for 'Harvest Tiny Tot' Dahlias, without the need for additional humidity control measures.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light, and keep the soil evenly moist.
Outdoor
Place in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot' begins its life cycle when the tubers are planted after the last frost date in spring. Germination occurs, and shoots emerge from the soil, with initial leaves unfolding to start the process of photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it develops a strong stem and a foliage system, eventually producing distinctive and colorful blooms throughout the summer and into the fall. During the flowering stage, it can be deadheaded to encourage further blooms and maintain its compact habit. As temperatures drop with the onset of autumn, the dahlia's growth slows down, and the plant prepares for dormancy; above-ground foliage dies back after frost. Tubers can be dug up, stored in a cool, dry place during winter, and then replanted the following spring to complete the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Harvest Tiny Tot', commonly referred to as a Miniature Ball Dahlia, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. This process involves dividing the tuberous roots in the late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. Each division should have at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from which new growth will sprout. It is important to use a clean, sharp knife to make the divisions and to let the cut surfaces dry for a day or two to prevent rot. Once dried, the tubers can be planted in well-draining soil about 6 inches (15 cm) deep, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart to allow adequate room for growth.
