Caring for dahlias once they are flowering means giving them love and attention (!) and if you want them to flower the following year, then follow our guide;
Pruning and Deadheading
- Pinching: When the plants are about 12 inches tall, pinch out the top growth to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from going to seed.
Pest and Disease Management
- Slugs and Snails: Protect young plants from these pests by using barriers or organic slug pellets.
- Powdery Mildew: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of this fungal disease.
End of Season Care
- Frost Protection: In colder climates, dahlia tubers must be dug up and stored after the first frost.
- Digging Up Tubers: Cut back the foliage after the first frost blackens it, then carefully dig up the tubers.
- Storing Tubers: Allow tubers to dry for a few days, then store them in a cool, dry place (40-50°F) in peat moss, sawdust, or sand. Check them periodically for signs of rot.
Propagation
- Dividing Tubers: In spring, before planting, divide tubers with at least one eye each to propagate more plants.
- Cuttings: You can also take cuttings from new shoots in spring to start new plants.
Winter Care (if not lifting tubers)
- Mulching: In mild climates, you can leave tubers in the ground over winter but this is Scotland (!) so mulch heavily to protect them from frost.
