Dahlia Seeds (Ball) - Cornel Bronze

Dahlia Cornel Bronze is an exquisite ball dahlia variety, known for its rich, bronze-colored blooms that add a touch of sophistication to any garden. The perfectly shaped, rounded flowers are ideal for adding depth and contrast, whether planted in the ground or in containers. This variety is a standout with its striking color and compact growth, making it perfect for both garden beds and decorative arrangements.

Key Benefits

• Rich Bronze Blooms: Features deep bronze-colored flowers that add warmth and contrast to your garden.
• Compact Growth: A shorter variety that grows to a manageable height, making it perfect for both small gardens and large container plantings.
• Perfect for Cut Flowers: The ball-shaped blooms are ideal for creating elegant floral arrangements and bouquets.
• Long-Lasting Flowers: Enjoy vibrant blooms throughout the summer and into the fall, creating long-lasting color in your garden.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, helping to support a healthy garden ecosystem.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Compact, bushy plants with deep green foliage, providing a solid backdrop for the striking bronze blooms.
• Bloom Season: Flowers appear from mid-summer and continue into the fall, providing long-lasting color.
• Growth Habit: A ball-shaped, dense plant that reaches a height of 18–24 inches, making it suitable for smaller spaces and containers.
• Size: The rounded blooms are about 4–6 inches in diameter, creating a dense and eye-catching display.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant Dahlia Cornel Bronze tubers in late spring, once the risk of frost has passed and the soil is warm (above 60°F or 15°C).
• Choose a spot that receives full sun for optimal growth and flowering.

Planting Details

• Bulb Depth: Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep, ensuring the "eye" of the tuber faces upwards.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Full sun is required for optimal blooming and strong plant growth.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Dahlia Cornel Bronze needs about 1 inch of water per week, especially during dry spells.
• Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) when planting and again when the plants are 6 inches tall for healthy growth.
• Continue fertilizing every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to promote vibrant blooms.

Weeding and Mulching

• Regularly remove weeds to prevent competition for nutrients.
• Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and keep weeds at bay.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for aphids, slugs, and snails. Use organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap or slug traps.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Dahlia Cornel Bronze is also prone to tuber rot if overwatered, so proper drainage is crucial.

Harvesting

• For Blooms: Cut flowers when they are fully open but firm to the touch for the longest vase life.
• For Tubers: After the first frost, dig up the tubers carefully, dry them completely, and store them in a cool, dry place for the winter.

Storage

Short-Term: Store cut flowers in a vase with fresh water. Change the water regularly to ensure the flowers last as long as possible. Long-Term: Tubers should be stored in a cool, dry area (40°F or 4°C) during the winter months to prevent rotting. Ensure they are fully dry before storage.

Culinary and Aesthetic Uses

• Aesthetic: The deep bronze flowers make Dahlia Cornel Bronze a perfect choice for adding color contrast and sophistication to your garden. It works well in mixed beds, borders, and containers.
• Floral Arrangements: This variety's compact, rounded blooms are perfect for creating elegant cut flower arrangements. Their color and structure make them ideal for adding depth to bouquets.

Conclusion

Dahlia Cornel Bronze is a captivating ball dahlia that brings rich, warm hues and compact growth to any garden. With its striking bronze blooms, long-lasting flowers, and suitability for smaller spaces, it is an ideal choice for both ornamental gardens and floral displays. Whether used in garden beds or as part of a cut flower arrangement, this dahlia is sure to impress with its beauty and elegance.