Dahlia [Taxi Driver] Dahlia Taxi Driver = 'Vdtg57' (PBR) (Dark Angel Series) (Sin)

Water

The Dark Angel Dahlia requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, and it's best to water deeply once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. This equates to approximately 1 gallon of water per week for each plant. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. It is important to water the plants at the base to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal infections. Overhead watering should be avoided to keep the flowers looking their best.

Light

Dark Angel Dahlias thrive in full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. The best spot for planting them is a location where they will receive direct sunlight during the morning and partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon to prevent the flowers from fading.

Temperature

Dahlias prefer moderate temperatures and perform best in an environment where daytime temperatures are between 70°F and 85°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 60°F but should be protected from freezing conditions, as they are sensitive to frost. Ideal growing temperature conditions for Dahlias are between 70°F and 75°F during the day.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias is necessary to promote vigorous growth and more prolific blooming. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooms. Cut back the stems to about 3 inches in late autumn after the first frost has blackened the foliage and the plants start to die back, preparing them for winter dormancy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Taxi Driver', thrive best in a well-draining, fertile soil mix. A good recipe for dahlia potting mix might include equal parts peat moss, loamy garden soil, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. Compost can also be added to enrich the soil. These plants prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Regular fertilization can help maintain soil fertility as dahlias are heavy feeders.

Repotting

Dahlias like 'Taxi Driver' generally don’t need to be repotted very often. They are typically grown from tubers that are planted annually. If grown in pots, dahlias should be repotted each spring as new growth begins. The best time to repot is when the tubers are divided after the dormant period in late winter or early spring before starting a new growth cycle.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias, such as 'Taxi Driver', do not have specific humidity requirements but they do best in environments that mimic their native climates which is neither too dry nor too humid. Average room humidity is typically adequate, but ensuring good air circulation around the plant is beneficial to prevent any fungal problems that can arise in conditions of high humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, moderate watering, and sturdy support for growth.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, rich soil, consistent moisture, and protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Dark Angel Dahlia 'Taxi Driver' (Dahlia x hortensis) begins with seed germination, where the seed is sown and emerges as a seedling under appropriate moisture, temperature, and light conditions. Following germination, the plant enters the vegetative stage showing substantial leaf growth. As the dahlias mature, they progress into the budding stage, in which flower buds develop signaling the onset of the reproductive phase. Full bloom occurs when the trademark vibrant, colorful flowers open and can be seen in late summer to fall. This ornamental plant's blossoms last until the first frost when the plant begins to wither, marking the end of its seasonal life cycle. In regions with cold winters, gardeners typically dig out the tubers after the first frost, store them over winter, and replant them the next spring, continuing the life cycle for multiple years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Dahlia 'Taxi Driver' from the Dark Angel Series is through division of the tubers, which is typically done in spring when the danger of frost has passed. To propagate, carefully dig up the clump of dahlia tubers after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. The tubers should then be divided by gently breaking or cutting them apart, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, or growth point. The divisions can be planted directly into the garden at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10-15 centimeters) and spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (45-60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow. This method of propagation allows for an exact genetic copy of the parent plant and is an excellent way to expand your dahlia collection or rejuvenate old clumps that have become too dense.