Dahlia Dahlia 'Lismore Willie' (WL)

Water

Dahlias, including 'Lismore Willie', prefer consistent moisture but do not like to be waterlogged; therefore, it's important to water them deeply while allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During the growing season, water them with about 1 to 2 gallons per week, depending on weather conditions. Increase watering if the weather is particularly hot or dry, and decrease it if you experience a period of rain. Watering should be done at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. As the plant matures, particularly during bloom time, dahlias may require more frequent watering to support their large blooms.

Light

Dahlias, such as the 'Lismore Willie', thrive in full sun conditions, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that receives morning sunlight but is protected from the intense heat of the late afternoon can be ideal. Make sure the plant is positioned in a location where it won't be shaded by larger plants or structures during the day.

Temperature

Dahlias like 'Lismore Willie' perform best in temperatures that range between 60°F and 70°F, which promotes optimal growth and flowering. They can survive a minimum temperature of about 50°F and should be protected from frost, which can be damaging. Dahlias can tolerate temperatures up to about 90°F, but if the temperature regularly exceeds this, the plants may need extra care, including shade, to prevent stress.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias like 'Lismore Willie' is essential for shaping the plant, encouraging blooms, and maintaining plant health. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. In early summer, pinch out the terminal bud to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. After the first frost in fall when foliage begins to brown, cut back the stems to about 4-6 inches above the ground. Prune again in the spring if necessary when new growth appears.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Lismore Willie' includes a mixture of loam, peat, and sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Adding compost also helps to provide essential nutrients.

Repotting

Dahlias, including 'Lismore Willie', are typically not repotted as they are grown from tubers planted directly in the ground each spring. However, tubers should be lifted and stored during the winter in colder climates and can be divided every 2-3 years to rejuvenate and propagate the plants.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'Lismore Willie' prefer moderate humidity levels. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants will help maintain suitable humidity conditions and prevent potential disease issues.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, moderate humidity, and cool nights.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, after the last frost date.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Lismore Willie' (commonly known simply as Dahlia) begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in well-draining soil after the last frost, signaling the start of its growth phase. The plant emerges as a sprout and eventually develops into a bushy, leafy plant, during which it enters a period of vegetative growth, focusing on producing stems and foliage. As temperatures rise and day length increases heading towards summer, Dahlia 'Lismore Willie' transitions into the flowering stage, producing vibrant and often large blooms that can be a variety of colors and shapes depending on the cultivar. After flowering, which can last until the autumn, pollination may occur, leading to the production of seeds, though Dahlias are often propagated through division of tubers rather than seed. As temperatures drop towards winter, the above-ground part of the plant dies back, and the tubers enter a dormant phase where they rest underground. Gardeners typically lift and store Dahlia tubers over winter in colder climates to protect them from frost, replanting them the following spring to start the life cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Lismore Willie' is through division of the tubers. This is typically done in spring just before new growth begins. Gardeners should carefully dig up the clump of dahlia tubers after the frost risk has passed, making sure to keep as much soil as possible around them to avoid damage. The tubers should be separated carefully by hand, making sure each division has at least one eye, which is where the new shoots emerge. These divisions can then be planted at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. After being placed in well-draining soil and watered thoroughly, new dahlia plants will begin to grow and can bloom throughout the summer and into the fall.