Dahlia Dahlia 'NZ's Robert' (Wl/lil)

Water

Dahlias require a consistent watering schedule, especially during the growing season. Water the Dahlia 'NZ's Robert' deep enough to soak the soil where the roots are, which is usually about 6-8 inches below the surface. A good rule of thumb is to water them with approximately 1 to 2 gallons per week, depending on weather conditions; they may need more water during dry spells and less during times of heavy rainfall. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. It's best to water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry off during the day.

Light

Dahlias thrive in a location with full sun exposure, meaning they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The Dahlia 'NZ's Robert' will perform best when placed in an area that gets unfiltered sunlight through the majority of the day. Avoid spots where the plant would be in the shadow of taller plants or structures during this prime sunlight period.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer a temperate climate with an ideal temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be subjected to frost. The Dahlia 'NZ's Robert' can withstand temperatures up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to heat can stress the plant.

Pruning

Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'NZ's Robert', benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Prune or pinch the tips of the young plants when they are about a foot tall to promote branching. Throughout the season, remove any spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. The best time for heavy pruning is early in the season, and maintenance pruning should continue as needed through the bloom period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A mix of loam, peat, and sand is ideal, with a pH around 6.5 to 7.0. Mulching around the plant can help preserve soil moisture and improve overall soil quality for 'NZ's Robert'.

Repotting

Dahlias typically need to be repotted every year. For 'NZ's Robert', repotting should be done in the spring after the last frost when you're ready to plant them outdoors, as they are not frost-tolerant and are often grown as annuals.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'NZ's Robert' do not have specific humidity requirements and can tolerate a wide range. They perform well in average outdoor humidity levels and do not require additional humidity control.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in direct sunlight, ensure good air circulation & regular watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant after frost; full sun; well-draining soil; consistent watering.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'NZ's Robert' begins its life cycle as a tuber planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The plant then sprouts and develops a strong stem with lush foliage, during which time it requires adequate water, soil nutrients, and sunlight to grow. Throughout the summer, Dahlia 'NZ's Robert' enters the flowering stage, producing large, showy flowers with water lily-like blooms that can be a range of colors, often attracting pollinators to the garden. After flowering, if the blooms are not deadheaded, it may produce seeds, though Dahlias are more commonly propagated via division of tubers. As temperatures cool and daylight decreases in the fall, the plant's growth slows and the foliage begins to yellow, signaling entrance into dormancy. Prior to the onset of freezing weather, the tubers are typically dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place over winter to be replanted the following spring, completing the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• The Dahlia 'NZ's Robert', known commonly as a type of Dahlia, typically begins its propagation period in spring when the soil has warmed and there is no longer any risk of frost damaging the tender new growth. One popular method for propagating Dahlias is by dividing their tuberous roots. This process involves waiting until the plant has finished blooming and the foliage has died back. The tubers are then carefully dug up, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is where the new growth will emerge. The divisions are then stored in a cool, dry place over winter and planted out again the following spring, spaced approximately 18 inches to 2 feet (about 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow. It is important not to overwater the new tubers, as they can rot; instead, water sparingly until the new shoots emerge.