Dahlia Dahlia 'Josie Gott' (Ba)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Josie Gott' is a strikingly beautiful plant known for its vibrant blooms. The flowers are the most captivating feature, often presenting in a warm, radiant color. Petals are arranged in a regular pattern that gives the bloom a full, almost spherical appearance. Each petal boasts a soft, smooth texture and they may exhibit subtle gradations of color or have distinct edges that contrast with the base color. The arrangement of petals can range from tightly overlapped to gracefully spaced, adding to the flower's depth and dimension. As a member of the dahlia family, 'Josie Gott' is known for its lush, green foliage that provides a complementary backdrop to its showy flowers. The leaves are typically broad and slightly serrated, contributing to the plant's overall lushness and visual density. The entire plant displays a strong, upright habit, which allows the blooms to stand out prominently against the foliage, beckoning attention from onlookers and pollinators alike. The stems are sturdy, supporting the weight of the blooms, and the overall structure of the Dahlia 'Josie Gott' is robust and well-formed, ensuring that the beauty of the blossoms is prominently displayed throughout its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Garden Dahlia, Georgina.
Common names
Dahlia 'Josie Gott' (Ba).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Josie Gott', are not considered toxic to humans. There is no well-documented evidence of dahlias causing poisoning if ingested, and they are generally regarded as safe around humans. Though not toxic, eating any plant material can potentially cause a reaction in some individuals due to personal sensitivities, so it is not advisable to consume dahlia plants.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Josie Gott', are also not considered toxic to pets. They are generally safe when pets are around them and are not known to cause poisoning if ingested. Each pet may react differently to consuming plant materials, and some might experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the consumption of non-food items, but dahlias are not recognized for having toxins that would cause serious harm or poisoning to pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive blooms: Dahlias are known for their stunning and diverse flower forms and colors which add visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator-friendly: They attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that are essential for pollination in the garden.
- Long blooming season: Dahlias typically bloom from mid-summer through fall, providing long-lasting color to the garden.
- Cut flower production: Dahlias are excellent for cut flower arrangements due to their beautiful blooms and sturdy stems, making them a favorite among florists.
- Variety of uses: Suitable for planting in borders, as specimen plants, or in containers, offering diverse options for garden design.
- Easy propagation: They can be easily propagated from cuttings, tubers, or seeds, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Garden competitions: Due to their impressive flowers, dahlias are often used in garden competitions and flower shows.
- Cultural significance: Dahlias are Mexico's national flower and have cultural importance in various countries, adding a layer of significance when planting them.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural fabric dye: The petals of Dahlias can be used to produce a range of vibrant dyes for coloring textiles.
- Photography subject: Due to their vivid colors and intricate patterns, Dahlias are often used as subjects in botanical and macro photography.
- Culinary decoration: Edible varieties of Dahlia petals can be used as a decorative element for cakes and desserts.
- Garden design: Dahlias, with their structured form and height, are excellent for creating focal points in garden design.
- Art inspiration: The unique form and colors of Dahlias can serve as inspiration for artists in various mediums, including painting and sculpture.
- Teaching tool: Dahlia variety, due to its genetic diversity, serves as a teaching example in horticulture and botany classes.
- Companion planting: Dahlias may be used in gardens to help attract pollinators to other plants nearby, enhancing the productivity of vegetable and fruit gardens.
- Crafting: Dried Dahlia flowers can be used in crafting, such as in making potpourri or decorative wreaths.
- Theme events: Dahlias can be used as part of event decorations for themed parties or weddings, especially in the fall season when they are in full bloom.
- Floral art: Dahlias can be used in floral art competitions for creating elaborate displays and arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty and Elegance: Dahlias are often associated with beauty and elegance due to their intricate petals and stunning array of colors.
- Diversity and Variety: With its many different hues and forms, the dahlia represents diversity and the ability to stand out uniquely among the crowd.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias can symbolize a lasting bond and commitment between two people, often used to express sentiments of everlasting love.
- Positive Change: As dahlias bloom in a variety of conditions and can thrive in change, they may symbolize positive change and adaptability in life.
WaterWater dahlias deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water for each plant. The goal is to maintain a consistently moist soil without letting it become soggy. In hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently. Reduce watering as temperatures cool in the fall or if rainfall increases.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day. The best spot for them would be an area that receives this amount of sunlight without too much shade, as too much shade can lead to fewer blooms.
TemperatureDahlia 'Josie Gott' prefers a temperature range of approximately 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but perform best when the weather is not too hot. Dahlias can tolerate temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit but may need additional care such as increased watering and some shade during the hottest part of the day.
PruningPrune dahlias to promote bushier growth, larger flowers, and to remove spent blooms, which encourages continued flowering. The best time to prune is early in the growing season when the plant reaches about 18 inches tall by pinching out the shoot tips to encourage branching. Deadhead regularly throughout the season to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage further blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, around 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Josie Gott' can include equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Adding compost or well-rotted manure provides the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and blooming.
RepottingDahlias, such as 'Josie Gott', are typically grown from tubers and do not require frequent repotting. They should be planted in the spring and lifted and divided every few years, usually after the frost has killed the foliage in the fall, to prevent overcrowding and to keep the plants vigorous.
Humidity & MistingDahlias, such as 'Josie Gott', prefer moderate humidity levels. Average room humidity is usually adequate, and they do not have specific humidity requirements. They thrive outdoors where there is natural air circulation and should be protected from excessive moisture to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and avoid overly moist soil.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, regular watering, and staking.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Josie Gott' begins its life cycle as a tuber, which is planted in the spring after the last frost date when the soil is warm. The tuber sprouts and a shoot emerges, eventually developing into a sturdy stem with leaves. As the plant matures, it produces buds that unfold into bright, showy flowers during the summer and into fall. Throughout the blooming season, the dahlia may be deadheaded to encourage continued flowering and maintain plant vitality. After the first frost, the foliage dies back and the plant enters a dormant period; the tubers can be dug up and stored for the winter in cooler climates. In the following spring, the dahlias can be replanted, thus repeating their life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: Dahlias, like the Dahlia 'Josie Gott', are commonly propagated through division of tubers. The best time to do this is in the spring when the soil has warmed up and there is no risk of frost, which typically occurs after the last anticipated frost date in your region. When dividing dahlia tubers, ensure that each tuber clump has at least one eye from which the new plant will grow. Carefully separate the tubers from the main clump by hand or with a sharp knife, making sure not to damage the eyes. Each piece should have a bit of the original root crown attached. The divided tubers can then be planted directly into the ground at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. Keep the soil moist and wait for the shoots to appear, which signals successful propagation.
