WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
Two weeks after the last frost, when the soil has warmed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Back borders will pop with color when you grow the lush flowers of this semi-cactus form. Pinch back tips when plants reach about 6-12" tall to encourage bushiness and stake early to support the brittle branches in windy or heavy summer rain areas. Mulch is beneficial to keep the soil cool and moist during the hottest part of summer, keeping away from the stem. Keep cutting for bouquets for continual bloom until frost. A week after frost, dig up the tubers, if desired (leaving 4" of the stem), and store in damp sand or peat moss in a cool location, such as a basement, until spring. An unusual edible, in their native Mexico the tubers were eaten. Flower petals can be used in edible flower confetti or as a garnish.
Watering Details:
Water regularly, 1" per week.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Mix in 3" inches of compost prior to planting in lower fertility soils. Supplement with a bloom-boosting organic granular fertilizer in midsummer.
Diseases & Pests:
Japanese beetles damage Dahlia foliage and flowers. Knock them off into a bucket of soapy water; this is best done early in the morning. Combat slugs by scattering crushed eggshells or iron phosphate slug bait pellets on the soil surrounding the plants. Prevent fungal problems with proper spacing in an area with good air circulation and excellent soil drainage.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when flowers are half to fully open; best cut in the cool of the morning.
