Moonfire Dahlia Dahlia 'Moonfire' (Sin)

Water

Dahlias should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, meaning that water should reach down 8 to 12 inches into the soil. For 'Moonfire' Dahlias, water two to three times a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons per plant each time during the growing season, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Cut back on watering as the weather cools and the plant begins to die back naturally. Dahlias prefer a consistent moisture level and do not do well in soggy soil, so ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. During the peak of summer, extra water may be necessary to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.

Light

Dahlias, including 'Moonfire', thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. To ensure vibrant blooms and healthy growth, plant Dahlias in a location where they receive morning sunlight and are protected from the intense afternoon heat if you live in an area with hot summers. Insufficient sunlight can lead to tall, spindly plants and a reduced number of blooms.

Temperature

Dahlias, such as 'Moonfire', grow best in temperatures ranging between 60°F to 70°F. These plants can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50°F and a maximum of around 90°F. However, they will not survive freezing temperatures and should be lifted from the ground or protected if the temperature is expected to drop below 50°F.

Pruning

Pruning 'Moonfire' Dahlias involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage further blooming and cutting back the plants in late fall after the foliage has been blackened by frost. Dahlias should be pruned throughout the growing season to maintain a bushy, compact shape and to ensure optimal flower production. The best time for major pruning is when you prepare the tubers for winter storage, cutting back all the stems to about 2 to 4 inches.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive in a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for Moonfire would be one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Adding compost can also enhance soil fertility.

Repotting

Dahlias, like Moonfire, don't need frequent repotting and benefit from being repotted every two to three years. They should be repotted in the spring when starting new growth after the last frost date.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias such as Moonfire prefer moderate humidity levels. They can tolerate a range from 40% to 60% humidity, which suits most average outdoor garden environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, room temperature, and airflow for indoor Dahlias.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, provide support for stems, and water deeply.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlias, such as 'Moonfire', begin their life as tubers planted in the spring after the last frost. They quickly sprout and develop into bushy plants, with the foliage growing robustly before flowering occurs. Throughout the summer, Dahlias 'Moonfire' bloom, displaying their vibrant orange-yellow flowers with dark centers, attracting pollinators to the garden. After reaching full maturity and repeated blooming, they begin to die back as temperatures drop in autumn. Gardeners typically dig up the tubers before the first freeze, store them in a cool, dry place during the winter months, and then replant them the following spring. This seasonal cycle of growth, bloom, and dormancy repeats annually, with proper care ensuring the plant's vitality for years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Dahlia 'Moonfire' is by division of tubers, which is typically done in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. The process involves carefully digging up the clump of the plant and washing off the soil to reveal the tubers and the natural dividing points. Each division should have at least one eye or growth point. The severed pieces of tuber are then allowed to dry for a day before planting to help prevent rot. The divided tubers are planted about 6 to 8 inches deep (15 to 20 centimeters) and spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters). This method is efficient for maintaining the health of the plant, controlling its size, and producing true-to-type Dahlia 'Moonfire' plants, as they will exhibit the same characteristics as the parent.