Dahlia Dahlia 'John Street' (WL)

Water

Dahlias should be watered deeply, but infrequently, ensuring that the soil becomes thoroughly moistened to a depth of several inches. During the growing season, Water once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions, applying one to two gallons of water for each plant to encourage deep root growth. It's crucial not to overwater, as dahlias are prone to rot in soggy soil. When watering dahlias like 'John Street', it is best to avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Always check the soil moisture by feeling it before watering - the soil should be dry an inch or two below the surface before watering again.

Light

Dahlias thrive in a location with full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily to perform best. 'John Street' dahlia will produce the most blooms in an area that receives ample morning sunlight and some protection from intense, late afternoon sun, especially in hotter regions. Avoid planting in shaded areas, as too little light will lead to tall, lanky plants with fewer blooms.

Temperature

Dahlia 'John Street' prefers a temperature range between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night but no lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can tolerate a maximum temperature of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but high temperatures can stress the plants, especially if combined with high humidity. Dahlias will not survive freezing temperatures and should be protected or dug up and stored when temperatures drop near or below freezing, around 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias encourages a more robust, bushier plant with improved airflow and more blooms. For 'John Street' dahlias, pinch back the main stem when the plant reaches about 16 inches tall to promote branching. As the season progresses, regularly deadhead by removing spent blooms to encourage further flowering. The best time to prune is during the active growing season, but stop pruning by early fall to allow the plant to focus on tuber development.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'John Street' would consist of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. Amending the soil with compost can also provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.

Repotting

Dahlias typically do not need to be repotted as they are grown from tubers each year. However, Dahlia 'John Street' should be lifted and divided every 2 to 3 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias prefer moderate humidity levels and do not tolerate excessively humid conditions well. It is best to maintain an environment with good air circulation around Dahlia 'John Street' to prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate humidity for Dahlia.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, rich soil; space tubers 18-24 inches apart.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlias, including the 'John Street' variety, begin their life cycle when their tubers are planted in the ground after the last frost, usually in spring. They undergo vegetative growth, developing a strong root system and foliage as the soil temperature rises. Flower buds emerge following the foliage development, leading to flowering in late summer to early fall, showcasing their vibrant blooms. As the plant matures, the blooms eventually fade and the plant enters a period of dormancy with the onset of cooler temperatures in fall. During dormancy, the tubers can be lifted from the ground and stored in a cool, dry place to overwinter. The following spring, the tubers can be replanted, completing the cycle and beginning a new growth season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Dahlia 'John Street' (Waterlily type) is best propagated through division, a process typically carried out in spring just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully lift the tuber clump from the ground after the plant has died back, usually after the first light frost. Gently clean the soil off of the tubers and proceed to cut them into separate clumps, ensuring each division has at least one eye, which is a bud from which the new plant will grow. The divisions should be made using a sharp, sterile knife to minimize damage and reduce the risk of disease. After cutting, it can be beneficial to let the cut surfaces dry and callous over for a day before planting. The divisions are then planted in well-draining soil at a depth approximately three times the height of the tuber, which is usually between 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters). Water lightly just to moisten the soil and avoid watering again until you notice new growth to prevent rot.