Dahlia

Dahlia
Tuberous perennials, south of zone 7. In colder climates that are planted out during the frost free season with the tubers stored over winter in a cool greenhouse or cellar. They should be stored in a dry place that is cool but does not freeze. The dry tubers should be stored in cardboard boxes...the tubers can be covered by a layer of vermiculite for extra protection. The tubers are dug up during autumn after the first frost turns the foliage to black. At that time cut the stems to 6 inches above soil level then dig up the tubers and remove any extra soil. Leave the tubers to dry in a cool garage or shed at 5 to 10 C. They should be planted once all chance of frost has passed. Dahlias are best planted to a depth where at least 2 inches of soil covers the top of the tuber. Throwing some bone meal into the planting hole will encourage quick establishment. They prefer full sun on moist, humus-rich, well drained soil. Dahlias prefer at least 1 inch of water per week during summer, otherwise wilting and stunted growth may result. Drip irriagation or hand watering is best, since wetting the foliage too often may encourage disease. Voles may damage of eat the tubers...putting mothballs in the planting holes may discourage this.

* photos taken on Aug 30 2012 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on May 15 2013 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photo taken on Aug 15 2013 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Oct 17 2013 @ Agricultural History Farm Park, Derwood, MD

* photo taken on Sep 2 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Nov 8 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on May 6 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 19 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 5 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Sep 5 2021 in Columbia, MD

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* photos taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

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* photos taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 27 2019 in Columbia, MD