Dahlia cultivation tips

Dahlia, a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family, is known as one of the world's famous flowers. It is deeply loved by people for its colorful flowers, long flowering period, abundant flowers and large size. Dahlias also symbolize magnificence and good luck, and are very suitable for home planting. Learn some dahlia cultivation tips below.

1. Lighting

Dahlias need full sun, with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day recommended. Under the scorching sun in summer, especially at noon, it is necessary to provide shade to protect the plants from damage by strong sunlight. Insufficient light will cause dahlias to grow poorly, with small, dull-colored flowers.

2. Soil

The soil requirements are not high, but loose, fertile, well-drained sandy soil is preferred. The fleshy root system of dahlia is relatively thick and requires sufficient oxygen, so you can use garden soil, humus soil and river sand mixed with an appropriate amount of organic fertilizer as the cultivation medium.

3. Moisture

Dahlias are neither drought nor waterlogged tolerant. In daily maintenance, water the potting soil thoroughly after it has dried, avoid water accumulation, and keep the soil moderately moist. When it is hot and dry in summer, you can spray water on the leaves to increase the humidity; in the rainy season in the south, you need to pay attention to drainage to prevent waterlogging.

4. Fertilization

Because dahlias have larger flowers and leaves, they require more nutrients. During the growing season, apply decomposed organic fertilizer 1 to 2 times a month; after the flower buds are formed, apply appropriate amounts of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to increase the number and color of flowers. When applying fertilizer, avoid using concentrated fertilizer. The principle of "applying small amounts of fertilizer frequently" should be adopted. Fertilization should be stopped in hot summer and winter.

5.Maintenance precautions

Spring is the best time to sow and transplant dahlia seeds or seedlings when climatic conditions are favorable for their growth. It is recommended to replace the soil every 1 to 2 years to prevent soil nutrient depletion and compaction.

When the temperatures drop in winter, dahlias should be moved indoors or outdoor insulation measures should be taken to prevent the plants from being damaged by frost. After the flowers wither, they should be pruned off in time to promote the growth of other branches and leaves.

In short, dahlias grow best in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Within this temperature range, dahlias can grow and bloom healthily.