Dahlia [Lubega Power Tricolor] Dahlia Lubega Power Tricolor = 'Voldah5612' (Lubega Power Series)

Water

Dahlias should be watered deeply and thoroughly. For Dahlias like the Lubega Power Tricolor, it's recommended to provide about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on weather conditions. Water the plants at their base to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water every two to three days. In cooler, moist climates, watering once a week might suffice. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot or fungal diseases.

Light

Dahlias prefer full sun conditions with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. The ideal location for a Dahlia Lubega Power Tricolor is in an area that receives ample morning sunlight and partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon, if possible. Avoid planting in full shade as this will reduce blooming and can cause the plant to become leggy as it stretches towards the light.

Temperature

Dahlias thrive in temperatures that fall between 60°F and 75°F, which are their ideal growing conditions. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F, but anything below this can stunt the plant's growth or potentially kill it. The maximum temperature Dahlias can tolerate is around 90°F, but prolonged exposure to high heat can stress the plants. It's important to provide some shade or protection during the hottest part of the day in regions with high temperatures.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias encourages better growth and more prolific blooming. For the Dahlia Lubega Power Tricolor, prune by cutting back the stems by about a third once the plant reaches about 12 inches in height to promote bushiness. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to stimulate continuous flowering. Pruning is best done during the growing season, from spring to late summer, avoiding any major cuts as the plant prepares for dormancy in the fall.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for dahlias is a well-draining, fertile loam with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. Incorporate compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and ensure good drainage.

Repotting

Dahlias, including the Lubega Tricolor, generally don't need to be repotted often as they are typically grown as annuals. Divide tubers in the spring if necessary.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias prefer moderate humidity levels, but as outdoor plants, they are tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has good drainage.

• Outdoor

  Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil after last frost.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Dahlia 'Lubega Power Tricolor' begins with seed germination, which requires warm soil and can take a few days to a couple of weeks. After germination, the seedling stage involves the development of a rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant grows stems and more leaves, preparing for flowering. The flowering stage is marked by the appearance of the characteristic tricolor blossoms, which can last from midsummer to the first frost in autumn. Following pollination, the plant may produce seeds, although many dahlia cultivators propagate through tuber division rather than seeds. Finally, as temperatures drop, the dahlia enters dormancy, with tubers being stored underground or dug up and overwintered in a cool, frost-free place for replanting next spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Dahlia, known for its showy and vibrant blooms, is most commonly propagated through division, a process best performed in late winter to early spring just before new growth begins. One starts by carefully digging up the tuberous roots of the plant after the foliage has been killed by frost and the plant has gone dormant. These roots are then washed and the tubers are divided with a sharp knife, making sure that each section has at least one eye, which is a growth point from where the new plant will emerge. The cut surfaces are allowed to dry and callous over for a few days to reduce the risk of rot, and then the divided tubers can be planted directly into the ground or potted up in well-draining soil to start new Dahlia plants. This simple yet effective method helps gardeners multiply their Dahlias, ensuring a plentiful display of the Lubega Power Tricolor's striking and vivid blossoms in the coming season.