Dahlia Dahlia 'Mayo' (PBR) (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Mayo' features a stunning array of ornamental qualities that make it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts. This variety of dahlia is characterized by its strikingly beautiful flowers, which boast vivid colors and intricate petal arrangements. The flowers are large and showy, usually with multiple layers of petals that create a full, almost spherical bloom. The petals can display a range of colors, often in vibrant hues that may include shades of red, pink, purple, orange, yellow, and white, or combinations thereof, sometimes with gradients or striking patterns. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Mayo' is also attractive, providing a lush backdrop for the bright flowers. The leaves are typically deep green, creating a contrasting canvas that further accentuates the brilliance of the blooms. Leaves are shaped in a way that complements the spectacular display of the flowers, and their arrangement along the stem contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant. Additionally, this dahlia can produce multiple flowering stems that extend from the main plant, each one capable of supporting a bloom or several blooms. These stems help give the plant a full, rounded appearance, with the flowers distributed in a manner that provides a show-stopping visual impact in any garden setting. In summary, the Dahlia 'Mayo' is renowned for its colorful, full blossoms and pleasing green foliage, making it an ornamental gem in any garden where it is grown.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Mayo'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. They do not contain substances known to cause serious illness or death if ingested. However, eating any non-food plant material can potentially cause discomfort or an allergic reaction in some individuals. If a significant amount of dahlia plant material is ingested and symptoms appear, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
To pets
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. They do not contain toxic principles that would cause serious harm if pets ingest parts of the plant. Nonetheless, ingestion of plant material can lead to gastrointestinal upset in animals, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet consumes a large amount of dahlia and shows signs of distress, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
4 feet 48 inches (122 cm)
Spread
2 feet 24 inches (61 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlias are known for their beautiful and varied flower forms and colors, adding visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias typically bloom from midsummer until the first frost, providing color in the garden for an extended period.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are important for pollination and the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Versatile Use: Dahlias are suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers, giving them multipurpose use in the garden and home.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlias can be easily propagated from tubers, cuttings, or seeds, allowing gardeners to expand their collection and share with others.
- Diverse Sizes and Forms: With a range of sizes from dwarf to tall, and an array of flower shapes, Dahlias offer something for every garden space and design preference.
- Color Variety: Dahlia 'Mayo' and other cultivars come in many colors, enabling gardeners to create varied color schemes and themes in their outdoor spaces.
- Show Garden Quality: Dahlias are often used in competitions and shows, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who enjoy exhibiting their plants.
- Resilient Bloomers: Once established, Dahlias can be resilient plants that may continue to bloom even in challenging conditions.
- Enhances Garden Design: With their striking forms and vibrant colors, Dahlias can serve as focal points or accent plants, enhancing the overall design of a garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible Tubers: Some varieties of Dahlia have tubers that can be eaten, similar to potatoes, after proper cooking to remove bitterness.
- Natural Dye: The petals of Dahlia flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or art projects.
- Culinary Decoration: Petals of the Dahlia may be used as an edible garnish for salads and desserts to add a splash of color.
- Insect Habitat: Dahlia plants can offer habitat and nectar sources for beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.
- Feng Shui: In the practice of Feng Shui, Dahlias are believed to bring positive energy to homes and gardens when placed correctly.
- Photography Prop: Because of their beauty, Dahlias often serve as an excellent prop or subject in botanical photography.
- Mulch: After they die back, the leaves and stems of Dahlias can be broken down and used as a nutrient-rich mulch for gardens.
- Floral Arrangements: Not only fresh but dried Dahlias can also be incorporated into long-lasting floral arrangements and decorations.
- Art Inspiration: Due to their diverse and vibrant appearance, Dahlias are frequently used as inspiration in various forms of art, including paintings and textile designs.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried Dahlias petals can serve as eco-friendly and biodegradable confetti for celebrations and events.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia represents poise and sophistication due to its intricate petals and stunning bloom formation.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a gift, the Dahlia symbolizes a lasting bond and lifelong commitment between two people.
- Diversity and Variety: With its numerous varieties and wide range of colors, the Dahlia signifies diversity and embracing uniqueness.
- Creativity: The complexity and vivid colors of the Dahlia often inspire creativity and the drive to innovate.
- Change and Transition: As the Dahlia blooms in late summer through fall, it can represent the embrace of change and transition in life.
- Warning and Betrayal: In some historical contexts, Dahlias could also represent a warning of betrayal or an impending challenge.
WaterDahlias should typically be watered once or twice a week, providing 1-2 inches of water each time. It's best to water your Dahlia 'Mayo' in the early morning hours to allow the foliage to dry throughout the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as Dahlias do not like to sit in wet soil. During particularly hot spells, watering frequency should be increased. Always avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the base of the plant. In terms of gallons, if the plant is in the ground, use approximately 0.5 gallons per plant for each watering session, but adjust as necessary based on weather conditions and soil drainage.
LightDahlias thrive in a position where they receive full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day. The best spot for your Dahlia 'Mayo' is in an area that is exposed to direct sunlight during the majority of the day without any shade. Any less sunlight can reduce blooming and lead to leggy plants. Avoid spots that are shaded or overly bright indirect light; the direct sun is what helps Dahlias grow vibrant and healthy.
TemperatureDahlias prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures down to the mid-50s°F but will be damaged or killed by frost, so it is important to plant them after the last frost date in spring. Maximum temperatures should ideally not exceed 85°F to 90°F, as extreme heat can stress the plants. Maintaining temperatures within these ranges will ensure your Dahlia 'Mayo' remains healthy and blooms abundantly.
PruningPruning Dahlias, like the Dahlia 'Mayo', is primarily done to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut the dead blossoms back to the next branch junction. Additionally, pinching back the main shoot of young plants when they are about a foot tall will result in stockier plants with more flowers. The best time for major pruning is early to mid-summer when the plants are actively growing.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining soil with a pH of about 6.5. The best soil mix for Dahlia 'Mayo' includes a blend of loam, peat, and sand or perlite. Enrich with compost or well-rotted manure for increased fertility.
RepottingDahlias generally need to be repotted every year during their dormant period. For Dahlia 'Mayo', repotting is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels. While Dahlia 'Mayo' is not particularly sensitive, maintaining ambient humidity without causing dampness is sufficient. Avoid overly humid conditions that can encourage rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, fertile potting mix, sufficient water, and sturdy support for growth.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, regular watering, and protection from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Mayo' (also known as Dahlia) begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in fertile, well-drained soil after the last frost of the season. The tuber sprouts and a shoot emerges from the soil, developing into a stem with leaves. As the plant matures, it produces buds that eventually bloom into large, vibrant flowers, which may be a range of colors including the characteristic hues of the 'Mayo' variety. After the flowering stage, if pollination occurs, the plant may produce seeds, although Dahlias are more commonly propagated through division of tubers. As temperatures drop in fall, the above-ground part of the plant dies back, while the tuber goes dormant over winter. In spring, the cycle begins anew when the tuber can be divided and replanted, giving rise to the next generation of Dahlia 'Mayo' plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Mayo' is through division, which is best done in the spring when the plant is beginning to grow new shoots. To propagate by division, carefully lift the tuber clumps out of the ground after the foliage has died back and the soil has dried a bit. Using a sharp knife, slice between the tubers, making sure that each division has at least one eye, which is a small bud that will grow into a new plant. The cut surfaces can be allowed to dry for a day or two to form a callus, which helps to prevent rot when they are replanted. The divisions should be planted in well-drained soil at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), with the eyes facing upwards. Once planted, water them thoroughly to settle the soil and provide a good start for root development. With proper care, these divisions will grow into strong, blooming Dahlia plants during the growing season.
