Dahlia Dahlia 'Jocondo' (D)

Water

Dahlia ‘Jocondo’, commonly known as Dahlias, should be watered deeply, but infrequently, to encourage strong root growth; about 1 to 2 inches of water per week is sufficient for healthy growth, and this can be adjusted based on rainfall. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the base of the plant without wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. During the growing season, especially in dry or hot weather, check the soil moisture regularly—watering may be needed every two to three days. Always allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings, as Dahlias dislike overly wet conditions which can lead to root rot.

Light

Dahlias thrive in full sunlight, so plant your Dahlia 'Jocondo' in a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates, but too much shade may result in fewer blooms and a leggy plant. Avoid areas that are shaded for the majority of the day to ensure the plant grows strong and produces vibrant flowers.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a minimum survival temperature just above freezing, at around 32 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure vigorous growth, avoid exposing your Dahlia 'Jocondo' to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods. They will flourish in moderate temperatures but require protection or lifting the tubers in the winter in areas with hard freezes.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias, particularly the 'Jocondo' variety, is important to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the main stem when the plant reaches about 12 inches tall to encourage lateral branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming throughout the season. The best time for major pruning is early spring; however, light pruning and deadheading should be done as needed during the growing season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive in a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH ranging between 6.5 and 7.0. The best soil mix for Dahlias like 'Jocondo' is one that combines loamy garden soil, peat moss, and sand or perlite to ensure good drainage and fertility. Compost can also be added to provide additional nutrients and improve soil structure.

Repotting

Dahlias, including 'Jocondo', generally do not require frequent repotting and are often replanted each spring after the tubers have been stored for the winter. If grown in containers, they should be repotted when they become root-bound or the soil has exhausted its nutrients, approximately every 2 to 3 years.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Jocondo' prefer moderate humidity levels, as excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases. They grow best in an environment with humidity levels similar to what is found outdoors in their growing season. It is more important to maintain proper soil moisture than to focus on ambient humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Dahlias in bright, indirect light and water regularly.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, ensure good drainage, and water as needed.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Jocondo' begins its life cycle as a tuberous root, which, once planted in spring after the last frost, sprouts and grows into a small shoot. With sufficient sunlight, water, and nutrients, it develops into a sturdy stem with leaves, eventually forming a bushy plant. Throughout the summer, it transitions to the flowering stage, producing large, colorful blooms that can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After the flowering period, the plant prepares for dormancy; as temperatures drop in autumn, the aerial parts begin to wither. Gardeners typically cut the plant back to the ground and may lift and store the tubers in a cool, dry place over winter to protect them from freezing. The cycle restarts when the tubers are replanted the following spring, repeating the growth, flowering, and dormancy phases of the Dahlia 'Jocondo'.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The optimal time for propagating Dahlia 'Jocondo' is in the spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil is warm, usually late March through June in the Northern Hemisphere. The most popular method for propagating dahlias is by dividing tuberous roots. Carefully dig up the clumps of dahlia tubers after the foliage has died back in the fall and store them in a cool, frost-free place over winter. In spring, each clump can be cut into pieces, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, or bud, from which the new dahlia will grow. When dividing, use a sharp knife to minimize damage, dipping it in a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water (approximately 1.6 ounces of bleach to 14.4 ounces of water, or 47 milliliters to 425 milliliters) to prevent disease. Plant the divisions about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in fertile, well-draining soil and water them in well to promote good root development.