Dahlia Dahlia 'Preston Park' (Sin/dwb)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Preston Park' is a striking flowering plant known for its lush, vibrant blooms. The flowers of this variety are particularly eye-catching, with an abundance of petals that form a full, rounded shape. Each petal unfurls from the center in an orderly fashion, contributing to a somewhat symmetrical appearance that is pleasing to the eye. The petals are typically a rich hue, often displaying a gradient of color that can range from deep, velvety tones at the base to lighter shades at the tips, creating a stunning visual effect. The center of the flower is more pronounced, drawing attention to the intricate patterns of nature's design. The foliage of Dahlia 'Preston Park' provides a lush backdrop for the ornate flowers. The leaves are bright green, lance-shaped, and have a slightly serrated edge that adds texture to the overall appearance of the plant. The foliage tends to be abundant, forming a verdant bush that serves as a stage for the floral performance above. As a garden plant, Dahlia 'Preston Park' is prized not only for its beautiful blooms but also for its ability to stand out in a mixed border or as a focal point in a floral arrangement. The stems are sturdy, supporting the weight of the blooms and allowing them to sway gently with the breeze, adding a dynamic element to the garden. The combination of the striking flowers and the robust greenery makes Dahlia 'Preston Park' a popular choice among garden enthusiasts who seek to add a touch of drama and elegance to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Preston Park'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Preston Park', are generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. They do not contain substances that are known to cause serious harm or poisoning when ingested. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants, as some individuals may experience allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset if they consume plant parts that are not typically deemed edible.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Preston Park', are not known to be toxic to pets like cats and dogs. They are not listed among the plants that commonly cause poisoning in household pets. Nevertheless, it is always best practice to discourage pets from eating any form of plant material, as it can sometimes lead to mild digestive distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if the pet is not accustomed to consuming plant matter.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Dahlias are known for their showy and vibrant flowers, which add a splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Extended Blooming Season: Dahlia 'Preston Park' offers a long flowering period that can extend from midsummer until the first frosts, providing prolonged visual interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.
- Wide Range of Uses: Suitable for borders, container gardening, and as cut flowers for arrangements, giving them a versatile role in home gardening.
- Variety of Forms and Colors: Dahlias, including 'Preston Park', are available in various forms and colors, allowing gardeners to choose the perfect fit for their garden theme or color scheme.
- Garden Focal Point: With their striking appearance, they serve as an excellent focal point in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are generally easy to cultivate and do not require expert gardening skills, making them accessible to most hobbyists.
- Community and Cultural Events: Dahlias are often featured in garden shows and festivals, which could offer gardeners a chance to participate in such events.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias like 'Preston Park' can be used in art projects, such as pressing the petals for decorative flower arrangements or creating botanical prints.
- The structure of dahlia tubers can be studied in botany classes as an example of storage roots that provide nutrients for the following growing season.
- In floriculture practice, dahlias can serve as a subject for crossbreeding experiments to produce new hybrid varieties with unique characteristics.
- Dahlias' varied colors make them useful in color theory studies in educational programs related to design and fine arts.
- Used in photography practice, the vibrant dahlia flowers provide an excellent opportunity to study effects of natural light and composition.
- In culinary arts, dahlia petals can be used as a garnish for their bright colors, albeit they are not widely recognized as edible.
- During festive seasons, dahlias can be part of living installations or displays in cultural events and ceremonies due to their vivid colors and large blooms.
- Dahlia blossoms can be used in perfumery workshops to inspire scents, although they are not traditionally a source for essential oils.
- The geometric patterns found in dahlia flowers make an interesting study of natural fractals and symmetry for educational purposes in mathematics.
- Dahlia flowers can be used to create natural dyes for textile arts, providing a range of colors from the many varieties available.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Due to its sophisticated bloom structure and stature, the Dahlia often symbolizes elegance and dignity, making it a perfect representation of someone who carries themselves with grace.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are also associated with lasting commitment and bonds that stand the test of time, especially in relationships and friendships.
- Change and Variety: With a vast array of colors and forms, Dahlias can represent diversity, change, and variety, reminding us of the constant flux in life.
- Creativity: The intricate petals and unique patterns of the Dahlia can signify a wild imagination and creativity, often inspiring artists and thinkers alike.
- Inner Strength: They stand as a symbol of inner strength, drawing upon the flower's ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, suggesting the resilience of character.
WaterDahlias, including the 'Preston Park' variety, should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, with watering frequency being about two to three times a week, depending on weather conditions. It is important to avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of disease. Instead, water at the base of the plant, providing about one to two gallons of water per plant during each watering session. During the blooming season or hot weather, you may need to water more frequently to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
LightDahlias like 'Preston Park' thrive in full sunlight, needing at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for planting dahlias is in a location where they are protected from strong winds but still receive ample sunlight. Avoid placing them in areas with excessive shade as this can impede flowering and lead to disease.
TemperatureDahlias prefer temperate conditions and are not frost-hardy. The 'Preston Park' should be grown in a temperature range where night-time temperatures stay above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and daytime temperatures are below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Dahlias can survive in temperatures as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit but optimum growth occurs when the ambient temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning dahlias like 'Preston Park' is crucial for maintaining vigorous growth and promoting blooms. Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, should be done consistently throughout the flowering season to encourage further blooming. Additionally, cutting back stems in early summer can result in bushier plants and more flowers. The best time to prune is when the plant has several sets of leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.0. For the Dahlia 'Preston Park', a mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to increase fertility. Avoid heavy, soggy soils that can lead to tuber rot.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Preston Park', should typically be repotted every year, in the spring after the last frost date. Repotting is essential as it provides fresh soil and allows inspection of the tubers for damage or disease.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer a moderate level of humidity, ideally between 40-60%. The Dahlia 'Preston Park' does not require high humidity and can suffer in overly wet conditions, so ensure good air circulation to avoid fungal problems.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for indoor Dahlia 'Preston Park'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun and well-draining soil for outdoor Dahlia 'Preston Park'.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycle'Preston Park' Dahlia begins its life as a tuber, which is planted after the last frost when the soil is warm. The tuber sprouts and a young seedling emerges, which will grow into a mature plant with sturdy stems and lush foliage. As the plant matures, it begins to bud and eventually flowers, producing the characteristic large, vibrant blooms Dahlia is known for. After flowering through the summer and into the fall, the plant will eventually senesce as temperatures drop. To preserve the tubers for next season, they are typically dug up before the first frost and stored in a cool, dry place over winter. The cycle resumes the following spring when the tubers are replanted, continuing the perennial's life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Preston Park' is by dividing its tubers. This is ideally done in spring, just before the growing season starts when the soil is warm enough, usually when the temperature reaches about 60°F (15°C). Each division should have at least one eye or growth point from which the new plant will sprout. Carefully separate the tubers with a sharp, clean knife or hand saw, making sure that each piece is healthy and free of rot. Once divided, the tuber pieces can be planted directly into the soil at a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm). It's essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage growth. New shoots should appear in a few weeks, indicating successful propagation.
