Dahlia Dahlia 'Pink Magic' (PBR) (D)

Water

Dahlias should be watered deeply once to twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water which can be roughly equivalent to about 0.5 to 0.75 gallons for an average-sized plant, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, water needs may increase, requiring more frequent watering. It's important to avoid overwatering, as dahlias are susceptible to rot in soggy soil. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases. Reducing watering as the flower buds set can help increase bloom size.

Light

Dahlias thrive in a location with full sun exposure, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. They can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates where the afternoon sun can be too intense. An ideal spot for 'Pink Magic' dahlia would be in a garden bed that receives ample morning sunlight and some partial shade during the harshest afternoon hours.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer a temperature range of about 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can survive in temperatures as low as the upper 40s at night and as high as 90 degrees during peak daytime hours. However, 'Pink Magic' dahlia will not tolerate frost; it's essential to plant them after all danger of frost has passed in the spring and dig up tubers before the first fall frost.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias, like 'Pink Magic', is important for shaping the plant, encouraging bushier growth, and promoting more blooms. Pinching out the growing tips when plants are about a foot tall can help achieve a fuller plant. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to encourage continuous flowering. The best time for pruning and deadheading is in the late evening when the plants are least stressed.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for a Dahlia 'Pink Magic' is well-draining, fertile, and loamy with a slight acidic to neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Additions like compost or aged manure can improve soil fertility, and a layer of mulch helps retain moisture and control weed growth.

Repotting

Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Pink Magic', typically do not need to be repotted often as they are often grown as annuals. However, if growing them as perennials, repotting every 2 to 3 years in spring can rejuvenate the soil and support their growth.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like the Dahlia 'Pink Magic' prefer average humidity conditions and do not require excessively high humidity. Maintaining a typical outdoor humidity level is usually sufficient for these plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Dahlias in bright light and pot with drainage.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, fertile soil, stake stems; water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Dahlia 'Pink Magic' begins with seed germination or tuber planting in spring after the last frost, in well-drained soil and with sufficient sunlight. Seedlings or sprouts develop into young plants with a robust root system and foliage. As the plants mature during the summer months, they produce distinctive pink blossoms that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant may set seed or focus on storing energy in the tubers for the next season. As temperatures drop in autumn, the foliage dies back and the plant goes dormant, requiring the tubers to be lifted and stored in a frost-free environment if not in a mild climate. In the following spring, the cycle begins anew with the planting of saved tubers or newly acquired seeds.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating the Dahlia 'Pink Magic' is through division of tubers. This process is generally done in the spring as the new growth begins to sprout from the tubers. The gardener carefully digs up the dahlia tuber clumps after the plants have been cut back following the first frost or during early spring. Once dug up, the clumps are gently cleaned and the individual tubers are cut apart, ensuring that each section has at least one eye, which is a growth point. It’s important to use a sharp, sterile knife to make clean cuts to minimize damage and potential disease. After division, the tubers should be allowed to dry for a day or two to help the cuts callous over before planting. Planting depth is typically about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), with the eyes facing upward. This method of propagation allows gardeners to expand their dahlia collection and ensure identical flowers to the parent plant, as each division is a genetic clone.