Dahlia Seeds (Dinnerplate) - Penhill Watermelon

Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is a stunning dinnerplate variety, celebrated for its large, vibrant blooms with striking watermelon-colored petals. This variety is known for its bold and beautiful flowers that make a statement in any garden or floral arrangement. The large, multi-colored blooms and strong growth make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking dramatic color and size in their flower beds or for cutting.

Key Benefits

• Large, Vibrant Blooms: Features stunning dinnerplate-sized flowers with a rich blend of pink and watermelon hues, perfect for making a statement.
• Exceptional Flower Power: With a strong and sturdy growth habit, this variety produces abundant blooms that continue to impress throughout the summer and fall.
• Perfect for Cutting: The large, fully double flowers make it an excellent option for floral arrangements and bouquets.
• Long-Lasting: The blooms are long-lasting both on the plant and in floral arrangements, providing beauty for an extended period.
• Great for Garden Displays: Ideal for adding a burst of color to garden beds, borders, or as a focal point in mixed flower arrangements.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall and sturdy plants with dark green foliage that complements the bright, showy flowers.
• Bloom Season: Blooms from mid-summer through fall, providing a continuous show of color well into cooler months.
• Growth Habit: Sturdy, upright plants with a bushy structure, reaching a height of 30–36 inches, making them ideal for both garden beds and containers.
• Size: The blooms are large, measuring 8–10 inches across, with an abundance of petals in shades of pink, watermelon, and cream.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant Dahlia Penhill Watermelon in late spring, after the last frost, once the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F (15°C).
• Full sun is ideal for promoting optimal growth and bloom production.

Planting Details

• Bulb Depth: Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep, ensuring the "eye" (the point where new shoots emerge) is facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Full sun is optimal for maximum flower production, though partial shade is acceptable in hot climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week, especially during dry spells.
• Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as dahlias are susceptible to root rot if overwatered.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time, and reapply when the plants are about 6 inches tall. Continue feeding every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the plants free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
• Mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for aphids, spider mites, and slugs, which can damage the plants. Use organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew by ensuring proper spacing, watering at the base of the plants, and avoiding overhead irrigation.

Harvesting

• For Blooms: Harvest when flowers are fully open but still firm. Cut stems in the morning when the flowers are at their freshest, using a sharp knife or garden shears.
• For Tubers: After the first frost, carefully dig up the tubers, wash them, and store them in a cool, dry place for winter storage.

Storage

Short-Term: Cut flowers can be stored in a vase with water. Change the water every 2-3 days to prolong their freshness.
Long-Term: For winter storage, ensure the tubers are dry before storing them in a cool, dry place (around 40°F or 4°C). You can also store them in a breathable bag with sawdust or dry peat moss to prevent rot.

Culinary and Aesthetic Uses

• Aesthetic: Penhill Watermelon Dahlias are ideal for adding dramatic color to gardens, borders, and containers. The large blooms make them a focal point in any garden design.
• Floral Arrangements: Perfect for cutting, these dahlias create showstopping bouquets and arrangements, adding depth, texture, and bold color to any floral display.

Conclusion

Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is a stunning variety that offers large, vibrant blooms with beautiful shades of pink and watermelon. Ideal for gardeners looking to add a bold splash of color to their gardens, this dinnerplate variety also excels as a cutting flower, perfect for bouquets and arrangements. With its sturdy growth and long-lasting blooms, Penhill Watermelon is sure to be a favorite in any garden.