Dahlia Dahlia 'Yellow Sunburst' (S-c)

Water

Dahlia 'Yellow Sunburst', commonly known as dahlia, should be watered deeply to encourage deep roots, with watering intervals depending on soil moisture and weather conditions. Generally, dahlias require 1-2 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. During the growing season, it's often recommended to give dahlias about a gallon of water two to three times a week, more so if the weather is particularly hot or dry. Always water at the base of the plant to keep moisture off the foliage and flowers, thus reducing the risk of fungal infections. Over-watering can cause tuber rot, so make sure the soil is well-draining and that you're not leaving the plant in soggy conditions.

Light

Dahlias, including the variety 'Yellow Sunburst', thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Planting them in a spot that receives early morning sun is ideal, as morning sunlight helps dry dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. However, in extremely hot climates, dahlias benefit from afternoon shade to protect them from scorching midday sun.

Temperature

Dahlias like 'Yellow Sunburst' prefer temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F for optimal growth. They can survive in temperatures as high as 90°F but may need protection from intense heat. Freezing temperatures below 32°F can damage or kill the dahlia plant, so it's important to dig up and store the tubers over the winter in colder climates. The ideal growth temperature range helps ensure vibrant blooms and robust plants.

Pruning

Prune dahlias, such as 'Yellow Sunburst', to promote bushy growth, larger blooms, and to maintain plant health. Pinch out the growing tip above the fifth set of leaves when the plant is about a foot tall to encourage branching. Remove wilted blooms and dead stems regularly, known as deadheading, to encourage further flowering. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlias require well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for 'Yellow Sunburst' Dahlias might include equal parts of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Regular organic matter addition is beneficial.

Repotting

Dahlias, including 'Yellow Sunburst', generally do not need frequent repotting. They are typically replanted annually from stored tubers; however, if grown in pots, check yearly and repot if the tubers fill the container or show signs of crowding.

Humidity & Misting

'Yellow Sunburst' Dahlias prefer moderate humidity levels, but they are tolerant of a range of conditions. It's best to aim for an environment that mimics their native habitat, which is not too humid, to avoid issues such as rot or fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep 'Yellow Sunburst' Dahlia in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant 'Yellow Sunburst' Dahlia in full sun, rich soil, and space for growth.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a Dahlia 'Yellow Sunburst' (S-c), begins with a tuber dormancy period during winter when growth ceases and the plant rests. Come spring, the tuber breaks dormancy, sprouting stems and leaves as temperatures rise and days get longer. In a few weeks, the plant develops a strong stem and foliage system and enters the vegetative growth stage. By mid-summer, it starts flowering, producing vibrant yellow blossoms which are its defining feature. The flowering stage lasts until the first frost of fall, after which the plant begins senescence – the above-ground parts die back while the tuber survives underground. Gardeners often lift and store the tubers in a cool, dry place to protect them until the next growing season begins.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Dahlia 'Yellow Sunburst', a distinct cultivar known for its vibrant yellow flowers, is commonly propagated through the division of tubers. This is most effectively done in spring, just before the growing season begins, when the soil is workable and the tubers have begun to sprout. To propagate by tuber division, a gardener must carefully dig up the dormant tuberous roots after the foliage has died back in the fall and the tubers have been stored for the winter. Each division must contain at least one eye, which is a small bud from which new growth will emerge. The divided tubers should be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep, allowing adequate space for the roots to spread. Once in the ground, the tubers will sprout stems and leaves, eventually leading to the familiar showy flowers of the 'Yellow Sunburst'. This method is favored due to its reliability and the speed at which new plants can establish themselves.