The dahlia is a beautiful plant native to Mexico, and it's known for its incredible diversity. There are believed to be over 30,000 different varieties of dahlias around the world. Dahlia and peony flowers are known for their large size.

Common dahlia flowers typically measure around 12 centimeters in diameter and come in a wide array of colors, including red, purple, white, yellow, and various complex shades.

These beautiful flowers have a long flowering period, and they bloom tirelessly, making them beloved by flower enthusiasts. But how can you cultivate healthy dahlias?

Here's a straightforward guide to dahlia care:

1. Soil

Dahlias are relatively hardy plants and have modest soil requirements. The best soil for dahlias is loose, fertile, and well-drained sandy soil.

If you're potting them at home, we recommend using peat soil, humus, or a blend of coir and garden soil. Adding a bit of river sand or a breathable medium like perlite can also improve drainage.

2. Watering

Dahlias prefer moist conditions and don't tolerate drought well. However, it's important to avoid waterlogging the potting soil.

Daily watering is essential when the top 2 centimeters of the soil surface become dry. During dry weather or when the humidity falls below 50%, it's advisable to frequently mist the leaves.

Properly adjusting your watering can also control the height of the dahlia, preventing it from growing too tall and obstructing flowering.

When the summer arrives, dahlias enter a semi-dormant phase, so reduce watering. In winter, they go into complete dormancy, and watering should cease to prevent root rot.

3. Fertilizer

Dahlias have a strong appetite for nutrients, especially considering their large blooms. During the spring growth period, it's recommended to apply a balanced compound fertilizer every 10 to 15 days. The specific dosage may vary depending on the size of your plant. When the summer temperatures exceed 30°C, dahlias enter a semi-dormant state, and it's time to stop fertilizing. After the flowering period, as the plant gradually enters the dormant phase, no additional fertilization is needed.

In regions with suitable temperatures, there might be a fall blooming season, and in this case, it's advisable to apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizer before that.

4. Light

Dahlias love the sun and can't tolerate shade. Inadequate light can result in poor growth and limited flowering. They thrive with direct sunlight for at least 8 hours a day. Placing your potted dahlias on a south-facing balcony is recommended. However, during the seedling stage and in the hot summer months, they benefit from some shade to avoid overexposure to strong sunlight. Dahlias prefer cooler climates, with ideal growing temperatures between 10 and 25°C. In winter, it's best to keep them above 5°C to protect them from frost.

5. Pruning

Pruning dahlias is relatively straightforward. In winter, when the plant has withered, trim it to about 8 centimeters above the ground. For routine pruning, simply remove dead branches and leaves. Since dahlias are herbaceous plants, there's minimal need for extensive pruning.

By following these steps, your dahlias will thrive, producing abundant and oversized blooms.