Dahlia Dahlia 'Omo' (Sin/lil)

Water

Dahlias, including the variety 'Omo', require even moisture and should be watered deeply several times a week, amounting to about an inch of water weekly, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency to ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. A good method is to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the base of the plant, reducing evaporation and keeping the foliage dry to prevent disease. It's best to water early in the morning, which allows the foliage to dry out during the day if it gets wet.

Light

Dahlias, like 'Omo', thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for planting Dahlias is in a location where they are exposed to the morning sun and are protected from the harsh afternoon sun if the climate is particularly hot. They prefer bright conditions without too much harsh, direct light in the hottest part of the day, which can stress the plant.

Temperature

Dahlias, such as 'Omo', prefer a temperate range with daytime temperatures around 70°F to 75°F and night temperatures at a minimum of 60°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F but growth will be stunted below this point. Dahlias start to suffer when temperatures rise above 90°F; prolonged exposure to high heat can damage the plants.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias, such as 'Omo', encourages strong growth, large flowers, and helps maintain plant health. Pinch out the growing tips once the plant reaches about 16 inches tall to promote bushiness. Cut back the spent flowers regularly, usually every 3 to 5 days during the blooming season, to encourage more blooms. The best time for heavier pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of around 6.5. A good mix for Dahlia 'Omo' would be equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. Regularly enrich the soil with compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support their vigorous growth.

Repotting

Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Omo', typically don’t need to be repotted often as they are grown from tubers each year. However, after each blooming season, the tubers should be lifted, divided if necessary, and stored in a cool, dry place during winter, to be replanted in spring.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Omo', are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in average outdoor humidity levels. They do best in environments where the humidity is not excessively high, which could promote fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Use large pots, ensure full sun exposure, and maintain soil drainage.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, enriched soil, and provide consistent moisture.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Omo' (Sin/lil) begins its life as a tuber, which is planted in the soil during spring when the threat of frost has passed. It sprouts into a seedling and grows rapidly in full to partial sunlight, developing a sturdy stem and lush foliage. As the plant matures, flower buds form and eventually bloom into the characteristic large, vibrant flowers for which dahlias are known, between midsummer and first frost. After flowering, the plant enters a dormant stage in response to cooler temperatures and shorter days in the fall; the foliage begins to yellow and die back. Gardeners typically cut back the dead foliage and either leave the tubers in the ground with protective mulch in mild climates or dig them up for storage in colder regions. In the following spring, the cycle begins anew with either the replanting of stored tubers or growth from tubers that overwintered in the ground.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring - Summer

• Propogation: The best time to propagate Dahlia 'Omo', commonly known as Dahlia, is during late winter to early spring when the plant is still dormant or just as new growth begins. The most popular method of propagation for Dahlias is through division. This involves dividing the tuberous roots of the plant while ensuring that each section has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber where new growth can emerge. Primary divisions consist of separating larger clumps into smaller, more manageable segments that can be replanted individually. Cut the tubers with a sharp, disinfected knife and allow the cuts to dry for a day or two to prevent rot. Plant the divided tubers roughly 4-6 inches (10-15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, with the eyes facing upwards. The divisions should be spaced about 18-24 inches (45-60 centimeters) apart to give each new plant room to grow.