Dahlia Dahlia 'Tally Ho' (Sin)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Tally Ho' is renowned for its stunning and ornate flowers. The blooms are often characterized by their vibrant coloration, displaying rich shades that are typically bold and eye-catching. These flowers feature a multitude of petals that are arranged in a distinctive pattern, which can be either tightly formal or more relaxed and informal, depending on the variety. Each petal is carefully shaped, contributing to the overall symmetry and geometry of the flower head. The foliage of Dahlia 'Tally Ho' is equally impressive, with leaves that exude a lush and healthy green. The leaves are typically broad and have a pronounced texture, with a surface that can be smooth or slightly serrated at the edges. The stems are sturdy, providing robust support for the large, attention-grabbing flowers which cap them, ensuring that the blooms are nicely displayed and can be appreciated from all angles. When in bloom, Dahlia 'Tally Ho''s flowers serve as a focal point in any garden or landscape, drawing in onlookers with their elaborate form and dramatic coloring. Their appearance is known to attract various pollinators, adding to the dynamic and bustling nature of gardens that host these sumptuous plants. The plant overall is a testament to the diversity and splendor found within the world of dahlias, showcasing the ability to infuse any setting with a touch of cultivated beauty.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Tally Ho'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the variety 'Tally Ho', are not considered toxic to humans. They do not contain substances known to cause serious harm if ingested. Therefore, consuming dahlias should not result in symptoms of poisoning. However, it's always prudent to be cautious with any plant ingestion, especially if an individual has specific allergies or sensitivities.
To pets
Dahlias, including 'Tally Ho', are generally not considered toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingestion of dahlia plants should not cause serious harm or symptoms of poisoning in pets. However, individual animals might have mild gastrointestinal reactions, such as nausea or vomiting, if they consume a significant amount of plant material, which is commonly the case with the ingestion of non-food items.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-5 feet [1.2-1.5 meters]
Spread
2-3 feet [0.6-0.9 meters]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive blooms: Dahlias feature showy and vivid flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Wide color range: Available in a variety of colors, Dahlias can complement many garden design schemes.
- Pollinator friendly: They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Cut flowers: Dahlia flowers have a long vase life, making them excellent for use in floral arrangements.
- Seasonal interest: Dahlias bloom from mid-summer to fall, providing long-lasting color in the garden.
- Versatile planting: Suitable for borders, containers, and as specimen plants, Dahlias are adaptable to different garden styles.
- Relatively easy to grow: With proper care, Dahlias are not difficult to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners of various experience levels.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia 'Tally Ho' tubers can be used as a substitute for potatoes in cooking, thanks to their similar starchy texture.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as natural straws or can be used in crafts for making lightweight structures.
- The vibrant flowers are often used in dye making, imparting bold colors to fabrics and textiles.
- As a food source, dahlia petals are edible and can add a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- In some cultures, dahlia blooms are used as a natural decoration for religious and ceremonial events due to their diverse colors and large, showy flowers.
- Dahlia plants can be used as natural pest control in gardens as they attract predatory insects that feed on garden pests.
- The presence of dahlias in the garden can encourage pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the pollination of other plants.
- Dahlias are used in the traditional art of pressed flowers, often featured in decorative pieces or botanical displays.
- Because of their sturdy and symmetrical blooms, dahlias are frequently utilized in floral photography and art for their aesthetic appeal.
- The plant's sturdy stems and foliage can be composted after flowering season to enrich garden soil nutrient content.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not specifically mentioned in Feng Shui practice, but in general, flowers can be used to bring positive energy, beauty, and growth into a space. They could be placed in areas that might benefit from an uplift in energy, such as living areas, but there are no specific Feng Shui guidelines for Dahlias.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia 'Tally Ho', with its impressive blooms, is often associated with elegance and a dignified presence, reflecting the sophistication of the flower.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are symbols of commitment and an everlasting bond, making them popular choices for celebrating long-term relationships and marriages.
- Change and Variety: A dahlia's variety in color and form can symbolize change and diversity, encouraging an embrace of new experiences and opportunities.
- Strength and Grace: Dahlias bloom beautifully despite challenging conditions, so they are often seen as embodying a balance of strength with grace under pressure.
- Creative Spirit: With their intricate petals and stunning patterns, dahlias are emblematic of a wild creative spirit and the inspiration that nature offers.
WaterDahlias, like the 'Tally Ho' variety, should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, with approximately 1-2 gallons of water per plant per week, depending on weather conditions. During hot weather, they may need water every 2-3 days, while in cooler weather, once a week may be sufficient. Be careful not to over-water, as Dahlias are susceptible to root rot if the soil remains soggy. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightDahlias such as 'Tally Ho' thrive in full sun exposure, which means they need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. The best spot for planting Dahlias is in a location that receives morning sunlight and is shielded from the hot afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureDahlias, including the 'Tally Ho' variety, prefer temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive in temperatures as low as the upper 50s, but sustained temperatures below this range can harm the plant. Dahlias can tolerate up to the low 90s Fahrenheit, but high temperatures can cause heat stress. They should be protected from frost, which can kill the plant.
PruningPruning Dahlias such as 'Tally Ho' encourages bushier plants and more blooms. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about a foot tall to promote branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. After the first frost in fall, cut the plant back to 4-6 inches above the ground in preparation for winter storage of the tubers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias require well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlias like 'Tally Ho' would be a blend of garden soil, compost, and peat moss or a soilless potting mix amended with perlite and compost to ensure proper drainage and nutrient availability.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Tally Ho' variety, should be repotted annually. They are commonly grown from tubers that should be lifted and divided every year in the spring before new growth begins, to prevent overcrowding and to maintain plant health.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Tally Ho' do not require high humidity and are quite adaptable to the typical outdoor humidity levels. It is important not to create overly humid conditions as this can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moderate watering, and space for growth.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, spacing of 18-24", stake if needed.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Dahlia 'Tally Ho' begins its life cycle as a tuber that is planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed, typically in spring. The tuber then sprouts and grows into a young plant, developing a strong stem and leaves through vegetative growth. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, where buds form and bloom into the distinctive large, colorful flowers that dahlias are known for, which can occur throughout the summer and into early fall. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, although dahlias are more commonly propagated through dividing the tubers rather than growing from seed. As temperatures drop in autumn, the above-ground growth of the Dahlia 'Tally Ho' dies back, while the tubers can be left in the soil or dug up and stored in a frost-free place over winter. The cycle begins anew when the tubers are replanted or naturally resume growth with the return of warmer weather.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Dahlia 'Tally Ho', commonly known as a variety of Dahlia, is most popularly propagated through division, which is typically done in the springtime when the plant is emerging from its winter dormancy. This process involves carefully digging up the dahlia clumps and gently separating them into smaller pieces, ensuring each division has at least one eye, or growth point. The divisions can then be replanted into well-draining soil at a depth where the eye is just at the soil surface. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage growth. This method allows gardeners to create new plants that are genetically identical to the parent, maintaining the desirable characteristics of the 'Tally Ho' variety.
