Dahlia Seeds (Dinnerplate) - Labyrinth

The Dahlia Labyrinth is a striking dinnerplate variety, known for its large, dramatic blooms and vivid, fiery colors. With its brilliant orange, red, and yellow hues, this variety creates a stunning visual impact in any garden or floral arrangement. The Labyrinth Dahlia’s oversized blooms, reaching up to 10–12 inches in diameter, are perfect for gardeners who seek to make a bold statement. Ideal for flower beds, cutting gardens, or as a focal point in any garden design, the Labyrinth dahlia is sure to captivate all who see it.

Key Benefits

• Large, Show-Stopping Blooms: Features dramatic, dinnerplate-sized flowers, up to 10–12 inches in diameter.
• Vibrant Color Palette: A stunning blend of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, adding a bold splash of color to your garden.
• Long-Lasting Flowers: Blooms from mid-summer through fall, providing a continuous display of color.
• Attracts Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are drawn to the vibrant colors, helping to support pollinator health in your garden.
• Ideal for Garden Beds and Cut Flowers: Perfect for adding a striking visual element to garden beds or creating impressive cut-flower arrangements.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants that support large, heavy blooms with strong stems.
• Bloom Season: Blooms from mid-summer to fall, with each bloom lasting for several weeks.
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy plants with full, abundant flowers that create a dramatic effect in garden settings.
• Size: Typically grows 36–48 inches tall, making it a great addition to the back of flower beds or as a standalone focal point.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant dahlias in spring, after the last frost, when the soil temperature is around 60°F (15°C).
• Ensure there is no danger of frost before planting to protect the tubers.

Planting Details

• Bulb Depth: Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep, with the "eye" or sprouting point facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space Seeds 18–24 inches apart to allow for adequate airflow and growth.
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) is ideal.
• Sunlight: Full sun for at least 6 hours a day is essential for robust growth and maximum flowering.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Dahlias need regular watering, but ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. Aim to water deeply to encourage strong root growth.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and again during the growing season to support blooming.
• Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen to ensure energy is directed toward flowers rather than excessive foliage growth.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the dahlias weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
• Use mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and keep the soil cool during hot weather.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Aphids, slugs, and spider mites can damage dahlias. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew by providing good air circulation around plants and avoiding overhead watering.

Harvesting

• For Blooms: Cut flowers when fully open but before they start to fade. Use a sharp knife or scissors to snip stems at an angle to prolong vase life.
• For Tubers: After the first frost, carefully dig up the tubers, clean them, and store them in a cool, dry location for the winter.

Storage

Short-Term: Store cut flowers in a cool, dry place and change the water frequently for maximum freshness.
Long-Term: Store the tubers in a cool, dry place (around 40°F or 4°C) for winter storage. Place them in a box with peat moss or sawdust for insulation.

Culinary and Aesthetic Uses

• Aesthetic: The Labyrinth Dahlia is perfect for creating dramatic focal points in garden beds, borders, or containers. Its vibrant, fiery blooms make a stunning statement in any garden.
• Floral Arrangements: Due to its large, vibrant blooms, the Labyrinth Dahlia is an excellent choice for creating bold and colorful floral arrangements, especially for weddings, parties, or as a cutting flower for home use.

Conclusion

The Dahlia Labyrinth is a breathtaking dinnerplate variety that brings bold, fiery colors and dramatic blooms to any garden or floral display. With its large, vibrant flowers and robust growth, it is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a striking visual element to their outdoor spaces. Whether used in garden beds, containers, or as a cutting flower, the Labyrinth Dahlia will not only enhance your garden but also captivate anyone who sees it.