Dahlia Dahlia 'Tartarus' (P)

Water

Dahlias require consistent moisture, so water them deeply once or twice a week, providing about one to two inches of water each time. It's best to water the plants in the morning so that the foliage has time to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering to minimize wet leaves; instead, use a drip system or soaker hose to deliver water directly to the base of the plant. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, especially if the dahlias are in containers. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it's dry to the touch, it's time to water.

Light

Dahlias thrive in full sun, which means they need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for Dahlias is an area that receives morning sunlight and some partial shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates. Avoid placing them in full shade as it can result in leggy growth and poor flowering.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer a temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive minimal dips down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They are not frost-tolerant and should be protected or lifted from the ground if temperatures are expected to fall below this range. The ideal temperature conditions for Dahlias is daytime temperatures around 75 degrees and cooler night temperatures, as this encourages robust growth and flowering.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias encourages more vigorous growth and better blooming. Pinch back the new growth when the plant is about a foot tall to promote bushier plants and more flowers. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to keep the plant producing new flowers. The best time for major pruning is just before the new growth starts in the spring.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias prefer a well-draining soil mix with plenty of organic matter; a blend of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite is ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0.

Repotting

Dahlias should be repotted annually, usually in the spring after the danger of frost has passed but before new growth begins in earnest.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias do well with moderate humidity levels but do not require any specific humidity adjustments as they are quite adaptable to typical outdoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, consistent moisture, and room to grow for indoors.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, rich soil, protect from intense heat.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Dahlia 'Tartarus' starts with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil conditions. Growth continues with the development of a tuberous root system and vegetative growth of stems and leaves in the spring. As the plant matures during the warmer months, it begins to produce distinctive and vibrant flowers that can vary in color and size. After flowering, the plant sets seed, and as temperatures drop in the fall, the aerial parts die back, while the tubers enter a period of dormancy through the winter. The next spring, these tubers can be divided and replanted to produce new plants. These tubers can also be stored over winter and replanted, starting the cycle anew, if the climate is not conducive to in-ground winter survival.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter-early spring

• The most popular method of propagation for the Dahlia 'Tartarus', commonly known as Dahlia, is through division. This method is typically performed in the spring just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully unearth the tuberous roots after the foliage has been killed by frost and the plant has been cut back. The clump should be allowed to dry for a day or two. Using a sharp knife, divide the clump into sections, making sure that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from which new growth will emerge. Cuttings should be dipped in fungicide to prevent rot and then allowed to dry and callous over for a day before planting. Replant the divisions about 6 to 8 inches deep (15 to 20 centimeters) and water them well to start the development of new Dahlia plants.