Dahlia Dahlia 'Weston Spanish Dancer' (C)

Water

Dahlias, including the 'Weston Spanish Dancer', require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply a couple of times a week, providing at least an inch of water each time. This could roughly translate to about 0.6 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Adjust the watering frequency depending on weather conditions; more frequently if it is hot and dry, and less often if the weather is cool or rainy. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease, and water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry. It's crucial not to overwater, as dahlias are prone to rot if left in soggy soil.

Light

Dahlias like 'Weston Spanish Dancer' thrive in a location that receives full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. The best spot for this plant would be in an area that is exposed to direct sunlight during the morning and partial shade in the afternoon, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deeply shaded areas as dahlias will not bloom as profusely without sufficient light.

Temperature

Dahlias, such as 'Weston Spanish Dancer', grow best in temperatures that range from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can tolerate night temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected if it gets cooler. Dahlias can survive up to a maximum temperature of 90 degrees Fahrenheit but require additional care like mulching and watering in high heat. The minimum temperature for overwintering dahlias is 45 degrees Fahrenheit; below this, tubers must be dug up and stored inside.

Pruning

Pruning Dahlias like 'Weston Spanish Dancer' helps to focus the plant's energy on producing blooms and maintaining a healthy, bushy shape. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming. After the first set of flowers has finished, cut back the tips of the plant to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Pruning is typically done throughout the growing season as necessary. The best time for major pruning is early to mid-season, before the plant sets buds.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Weston Spanish Dancer' can be made with equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Amend with compost to increase fertility as these plants are heavy feeders.

Repotting

Dahlias, such as the 'Weston Spanish Dancer', generally do not need to be repotted often as they are usually grown from tubers planted each spring after the last frost, and then lifted and stored during the winter in colder zones.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlia 'Weston Spanish Dancer' prefers a moderate humidity level, not too humid to prevent issues with rot and fungal diseases. The plant can tolerate a range of humidity levels as long as proper air circulation is maintained.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil in full sun after last frost.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Dahlia 'Weston Spanish Dancer' begins with seed germination or tuber planting in spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. Seedlings or sprouted tubers are then grown to form a sturdy stem and a foliage system through which photosynthesis provides energy for growth. As the plant matures it develops a strong root system and by mid-summer, it starts forming buds that later blossom into vibrant red and yellow flowers characteristic of the 'Spanish Dancer' variety. After flowering, which can last until the first frost, pollination can occur, producing seeds for the next generation. Come fall, as temperatures drop, the plant's above-ground growth begins to die back and energy is stored in the tubers, which can be lifted and stored over winter. In the following spring, the cycle can repeat with these tubers being replanted, providing a new season of growth and blooms.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The dahlia known as 'Weston Spanish Dancer' is typically propagated through division of tubers. This method is mostly carried out in the spring after the last frost when soil temperatures are reliably above 60 degrees Fahrenheit (about 15.6 degrees Celsius). Gardeners divide the clump of tubers to ensure each section has at least one eye, or bud, from which new growth will sprout. With a sharp, sterile knife, they cut the tubers apart and allow the cuts to air dry to form a callous, reducing the risk of rot. The tuber sections are then planted about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil with the eye pointing upwards. This popular method harnesses the plant's natural reproductive cycle to create clones of the 'Weston Spanish Dancer', preserving its unique characteristics.