Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy' Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy' (Sin)

Water

Dahlias should be watered deeply with the objective of keeping the soil moist, but not soggy. Generally, dahlias need about 1 to 2 gallons of water once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions; hotter and drier climates may necessitate more frequent watering. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage which can lead to fungal diseases. During the growing season, ensure a consistent watering schedule to promote healthy growth and blooms.

Light

Dahlias thrive in full sun and should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for planting dahlias is in a location where they are protected from strong winds but have ample sunlight throughout the day. Overcast days can help alleviate intense summer heat and sun, but consistently bright conditions are optimal.

Temperature

Dahlias grow best in temperatures that range from 60°F to 70°F during the day and do not drop below 55°F at night. They can survive temperatures as high as 90°F, but prolonged heat can be stressful. Dahlias are not frost-tolerant and should be planted after the last frost date for your area.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias, by deadheading spent flowers and cutting back stems, encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Prune regularly throughout the blooming season for best results. The best time to prune is when the flowers have started to fade and no new buds are visible on the stem you are cutting.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy' is well-draining and fertile, with a mix of loam, peat, and sand or perlite. A slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.0 is ideal for these dahlias.

Repotting

Dahlias should be repotted annually, ideally in the spring as new growth begins. Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy' tubers can be divided at this time to promote vigorous growth.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy' prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to various conditions as long as their soil moisture needs are met. Excess humidity can encourage disease.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Plant in a large pot with drainage; ensure full sun exposure.

• Outdoor

  Choose sunny spot, ensure soil drains well, protect from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy' begins as a cluster of tubers, which overwinter under the ground if protected from freezing temperatures. In the spring, new sprouts emerge from these tubers and develop into bushy, sturdy stems with lush foliage. By mid-summer, the plant starts producing distinctive single or semi-double flowers, featuring white petals that often have a blush of pink or lavender at the tips surrounding a yellow central disc. The blooming phase can last until the first autumn frosts, during which time the plant can be deadheaded to encourage additional flowers. As temperatures drop in late fall, the plant's aerial parts start to wilt and die back, signaling a period of dormancy. Before the onset of winter, the tubers can be lifted and stored in a cool, frost-free place to overwinter and be replanted the following spring, completing the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method for propagating Dahlia 'Twyning's Candy', commonly known simply as Dahlia, is through division of tubers. This is ideally done in spring, just before the new growth starts. Gardeners should carefully dig up the clumps of dahlia tubers and gently separate them by hand, making sure that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from where the new growth will emerge. It is important to use a sharp, clean knife if the tubers are difficult to pull apart by hand. Once separated, the tuber pieces can be planted directly into the ground, with the eyes facing upwards, at a depth of approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters). The soil should be well-draining and the tubers spaced out to give each plant room to grow. Careful handling and proper planting will ensure the best chances for successful propagation and a vibrant display of dahlias later in the season.