Dahlia Dahlia 'Stadt Spremberg' (D)

Water

Dahlias prefer consistent moisture, so watering them thoroughly once to twice a week is usually sufficient, depending on the climate and weather conditions. It's important to water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage which can lead to disease. During the growing season, dahlias may need approximately 1-2 gallons of water per week. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. During hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary to keep the soil evenly moist.

Light

Dahlias thrive in a spot with full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal location would be in an area where morning sunlight is abundant, as this helps the dew on the leaves evaporate, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent heat stress.

Temperature

Dahlias do best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F. They can handle temperatures up to 90°F, as long as they are well-watered. They should not be planted until all danger of frost has passed, as they are sensitive to cold and cannot survive in temperatures below 25°F. Dahlias like warm days and cooler nights, which stimulate lush growth and vibrant blooms.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias encourages a more compact growth habit, larger blooms, and a longer blooming season. Pinch out the growing tips when the plants have reached about 16 inches tall to promote bushiness. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will stimulate further blooming. After the first frost blackens the foliage, cut the plants back to 4 to 6 inches from the ground, as part of the end-of-season care.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias require well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlias like 'Stadt Spremberg' is two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand.

Repotting

Dahlias, such as the 'Stadt Spremberg', should be repotted annually, typically when new growth begins in the spring after the last frost date.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias thrive in moderate humidity conditions; they do not require high humidity levels and can tolerate the humidity found in most outdoor garden settings.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Dahlias in bright indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun after the last frost in rich, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Dahlia 'Stadt Spremberg' begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in well-drained soil after the last frost of spring. It quickly sprouts and develops into a bushy, herbaceous plant, with the stem growing upwards and leaves unfolding. During its growing season in the summer, the plant needs plenty of sunlight and water to produce its stunning flowers, which can be a range of colors from white to deep reds and purples. After blooming, which can last until late summer or early fall, the flowers eventually fade and the plant prepares for dormancy. As temperatures drop in autumn, the above-ground foliage dies back and the plant enters a dormant period through the winter months. The life cycle can begin again the following spring when the tuber is either left in the ground (in warmer climates) or stored and replanted (in cooler climates).

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• For the Dahlia 'Stadt Spremberg,' the most popular method of propagation is through division of tubers, which should typically occur in the spring just before or as new growth begins. After the dahlia plant has been dug up, the tuber clump can be carefully separated into smaller clumps, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud from which new growth can emerge. These pieces are then allowed to dry for a day or two to heal the cut surfaces and prevent rotting. Once dried, the individual tubers can be planted about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart. This method allows for the rapid increase of dahlia plants while maintaining the specific characteristics of the 'Stadt Spremberg' cultivar.