Dharaseeds
Dahlia Seeds (Decorative) - Strawberry and Cream
Estimated delivery between February 06 and February 09.
Dahlia Strawberry and Cream is a charming decorative variety known for its beautiful, bi-colored flowers that feature soft, creamy white petals with striking red-pink edges. The large blooms are set against sturdy stems and lush green foliage, making it a stunning addition to any garden or floral arrangement. This variety is perfect for gardeners looking to add a splash of vibrant color and elegance to their garden beds, borders, or containers.
Key Benefits
- Bi-Colored Blooms: Gorgeous soft cream flowers with rich pink-red tips, creating a striking and attractive contrast.
- Long Blooming Period: Flowers from mid-summer to fall, ensuring consistent color throughout the growing season.
- Sturdy Stems: Strong stems make it an excellent choice for cut flowers, with blooms that last well in vases.
- Compact Growth: Reaches a height of 18–30 inches, perfect for smaller gardens, mixed beds, or containers.
- Versatile in the Garden: Works beautifully in flower beds, borders, and containers, complementing both vibrant and subtle garden color schemes.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Compact, bushy plants with large, rounded blooms in a cream and pink-red color combination.
- Bloom Season: Blooms continuously from mid-summer through fall.
- Growth Habit: Grows 18–30 inches tall, suitable for both small gardens and large containers.
- Flower Size: Each flower measures 4–6 inches in diameter, with soft, curved petals in a cream and strawberry-pink hue.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Plant tubers in late spring, after the last frost, when the soil temperature reaches around 60°F (15°C).
- Dahlias thrive in full sun but can tolerate some light shade in warmer climates.
Planting Details
- Bulb Depth: Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep, with the "eye" facing upwards.
- Spacing: Space the tubers 12–18 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Sunlight: Ensure full sun for optimal growth and abundant blooms.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting and when plants reach about 6 inches in height to promote healthy growth and strong blooming.
Weeding and Mulching
- Remove weeds regularly to prevent competition for nutrients. Mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for common pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails. Use insecticidal soap or natural remedies like neem oil to control infestations.
- Diseases: To avoid fungal issues like powdery mildew, ensure proper spacing between plants and water the soil rather than the foliage.
Harvesting
- For Blooms: Harvest flowers when they are fully open but still firm. Place them immediately in water for a long-lasting display.
- For Tubers: After the first frost, dig up the tubers, allow them to dry, and store them in a cool, dry place until the next planting season.
Storage
Short-Term: Fresh blooms can last up to a week in a vase when placed in clean water. Long-Term: Store tubers in a cool, dry environment for winter storage, ready for replanting the following spring.
Culinary and Aesthetic Uses
- Aesthetic: Dahlia Strawberry and Cream adds elegance and beauty to any garden. Its bi-colored flowers make it an eye-catching focal point in mixed borders, containers, or as part of a cutting garden.
- Floral Arrangements: Ideal for use in bouquets, this dahlia's soft colors and large blooms make it perfect for weddings, garden parties, and other floral displays.
Conclusion
Dahlia Strawberry and Cream is an exquisite decorative variety that brings beauty and elegance to any garden. With its stunning bi-colored blooms and sturdy stems, it is ideal for both garden beds and floral arrangements. Its long blooming period and compact growth make it a versatile choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of color and sophistication to their outdoor spaces.