Dahlia Dahlia 'Mom's Special' (D)

Water

Dahlias require a consistent watering schedule to ensure healthy growth and ample blooms. Water 'Mom's Special' dahlias deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water for each plant during each session. The key is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During hot spells or in particularly dry climates, you may need to water more frequently. It's important to aim the water directly at the base of the plant rather than overhead to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases.

Light

Dahlias thrive best in full sun where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. 'Mom's Special' should be planted in a spot that provides ample sunlight without too much shade. Avoid locations where buildings, trees, or other structures might cast too much shade on the dahlias throughout the day.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer moderate temperatures and do well in environments where the temperature ranges between 60°F to 70°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 50°F but should be protected from frost, which can damage or kill the plant. The maximum temperature for dahlias should not exceed 90°F for extended periods, as extreme heat can stress the plant, affecting bloom quality and health.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias, such as 'Mom's Special', is primarily done to promote bushy growth, enhance flowering, and remove any spent blooms or dead foliage. Prune or pinch back the tops when the plant is about 12 inches tall to encourage lateral branching. Remove spent flower heads throughout the blooming season to encourage continuous flowering. The best time to prune is during the growing season, when the plant is actively producing new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive in fertile, well-drained soil. A good mix for dahlia 'Mom's Special' would be equal parts peat, compost, and perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Dahlias, including 'Mom's Special', generally do not need to be repotted frequently since they are grown from tubers each year. The tubers should be planted in fresh soil after the last frost in spring and then lifted and stored during winter in colder climates to prevent freezing.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias, like 'Mom's Special', prefer moderate ambient humidity. While Dahlias are relatively adaptable, excessively high humidity can promote fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Aiming for a humidity level around 60-70% is suitable for these plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, adequate pot size, good airflow, and support stems.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun after frost; provide staking and well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Mom's Special' begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in the soil after the last frost in spring. The tuber, which can survive through winter in frost-free conditions, sends up shoots that develop into strong stems and leaves. As the plant matures, it creates buds that eventually bloom into the large, distinctive flowers that dahlias are known for, typically from midsummer until the first frost in autumn. After flowering, the plant directs energy back to the tuber, which stores nutrients to survive the dormant winter period. In colder climates, the tubers are often dug up before the first frost and stored in a cool, dry place to overwinter. When the weather warms again, the tuber can be replanted to start the cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• The Dahlia 'Mom's Special', also known simply as Dahlia, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method. Dahlias form tuberous roots, which can be divided in early spring before new growth begins. The ideal time for dividing dahlia tubers is when the eyes, or growth points, are just beginning to sprout, making it easier to ensure that each division has at least one eye. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire clump of tubers after the first frost has killed the foliage, or in climates without frost, when the plant naturally begins to die back. Gently rinse the soil off the tubers and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area for 24 hours. Using a sharp and clean knife, cut the tubers apart, making sure each section has at least one eye and a portion of the original tuber attached. Allow the cut surfaces to callous over for a day or two to prevent rot, and then plant them 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart.