Dharaseeds
Dahlia Seeds (Dinnerplate) - Emory Paul
Estimated delivery between February 05 and February 08.
Dahlia Emory Paul is a stunning dinnerplate variety that commands attention with its large, vibrant blooms and striking colors. The flowers feature a blend of fiery orange and yellow tones, creating a bold contrast that makes it a standout in any garden. This variety is perfect for gardeners seeking dramatic floral displays, whether planted in the ground or showcased in large containers.
Key Benefits
- Large, Eye-Catching Blooms: Known for its massive flowers that can reach up to 8–10 inches in diameter, offering a bold statement in the garden.
- Vibrant Color Combination: The fiery orange and yellow petals create a beautiful contrast, adding warmth and energy to any garden space.
- Long-Lasting Flowers: Enjoy vibrant blooms from mid-summer until the first frost, ensuring a long flowering period.
- Ideal for Cut Flowers: Its large, striking blooms make it perfect for cutting and arranging in vases for indoor enjoyment.
- Attracts Pollinators: The colorful flowers attract bees and butterflies, contributing to a thriving, eco-friendly garden.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants with dark green foliage that provide a strong contrast to the large, colorful blooms.
- Bloom Season: Flowers appear in mid-summer and continue blooming until the first frost, offering extended color.
- Growth Habit: Upright and bushy, typically reaching 36–48 inches in height, making it perfect for back-of-the-border planting.
- Size: Flowers can grow up to 8–10 inches in diameter, featuring vibrant orange and yellow tones with a slight ruffled effect at the edges.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Plant Dahlia Emory Paul tubers in late spring after the last frost when the soil is consistently warm (above 60°F or 15°C).
- Full sun is essential to encourage vigorous growth and produce large blooms.
Planting Details
- Bulb Depth: Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep, ensuring that the "eye" of the tuber faces upwards.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun to thrive and produce optimal blooms.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water deeply but avoid waterlogging. Ensure about 1 inch of water per week, especially during dry periods.
- Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) when planting and again when the plants are 6 inches tall to promote strong growth.
- Continue to feed every 4–6 weeks throughout the growing season.
Weeding and Mulching
- Regularly weed around the plants to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Use mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature consistent, especially during hot weather.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids, slugs, and snails, which can be controlled using organic insecticidal soap or slug traps.
- Diseases: Prevent fungal issues by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Dahlia Emory Paul may also benefit from crop rotation to avoid soil-borne diseases.
Harvesting
- For Blooms: Cut flowers when they are fully open but firm to the touch for maximum vase life.
- For Tubers: After the first frost, carefully dig up the tubers, dry them completely, and store them in a cool, dry place for winter storage.
Storage
Short-Term: Keep cut flowers in a vase with fresh water, changing the water regularly to prolong their beauty. Long-Term: Store tubers in a cool, dry place (40°F or 4°C), ensuring that they are kept dry and protected from frost during the winter months.
Culinary and Aesthetic Uses
- Aesthetic: Dahlia Emory Paul is perfect for adding drama and color to any garden. It makes a bold statement in flower beds, borders, or containers and is ideal for creating focal points.
- Floral Arrangements: Its large, colorful blooms are perfect for cut flower arrangements, bringing warmth and vibrancy to indoor spaces and special occasions.
Conclusion
Dahlia Emory Paul is a spectacular variety that brings a bold burst of color and drama to any garden. With its large, striking flowers, long bloom period, and versatility as a cut flower, it is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to make a statement. Whether used for its garden presence or as part of a floral display, Emory Paul will impress all who see it.