Dahlias are mid- to late season flowers that come in a vast array of colors and forms. There are small-flowered bedding dahlias as well as plate-sized blossoms on 6 ft. plants. It's hard to give an overview of dahlias when there is so much diversity.
Dahlias are often grown for their long-lasting cut flowers. There are some 30 species of dahlias and over 20,000 cultivars. Native to Central America, they have become darlings of plant breeders and flower shows and every year they become more dazzling. The forms and colors of the flowers vary with the classifications. They are often labeled as perennials, but they are actually too tender to leave out all winter, in all but the warmest climates. Which means you either have to dig and store the tubers or grow them as annuals and replace them each year.
When to water dahlias when considering dahlia watering, needs can vary greatly depending upon the growing conditions. once the tuber has started to grow, consistent dahlia plant irrigation is required in order to promote lush growth and prolific bloom period. for many, this means watering dahlia plants one to three times each week.
Semi-shade – this plant needs a lot of sunlight, but it has to be protected from the strongest rays of the sun.
Simply apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, extending to the drip line. For vegetables, place the fertilizer in a strip parallel to the planting row. Water-soluble fertilizers are faster acting but must be applied more frequently. This method gives plants food while you water.
These plants are not cold hardy and cannot be left in the ground over winter, where temperatures go below 20 degrees F. (6.5 C). That is why they are usually planted in the spring and dug and stored in the fall.
