The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Dinner Plate Dahlias

If you’re looking to add a touch of drama and elegance to your garden, dinner plate dahlias are the perfect choice. With their stunningly large flowerheads that can reach over 12 inches in width, these plants are sure to make a statement in any garden. However, despite their beauty, dinner plate dahlias require a bit of extra care to ensure they thrive. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to grow and care for dinner plate dahlias like a pro.

Why Choose Dinner Plate Dahlias?

Dinner plate dahlias are a popular choice for many gardeners for several reasons. Here are some of the key benefits of growing these show-stopping plants:

• Large, eye-catching flowerheads that can grow to over 12 inches in diameter
• Long blooming period, from mid-summer to the first fall frosts
• Wide range of colors and varieties to choose from
• Can be grown as perennials or annuals, depending on your climate

Dinner Plate Dahlia Care Tips

To ensure your dinner plate dahlias thrive and produce stunning blooms, it’s essential to provide them with the proper care. Here are some key care requirements to keep in mind:

Light

Dinner plate dahlias are sun-loving plants that require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant them in a full sun position for the best results. Partial shade can result in less impressive blooms and leggy plants.

Soil

Choose a rich, loamy soil that is well-draining for your dinner plate dahlias. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as manure or compost, to create the ideal growing conditions. Loose, aerated soil is crucial for promoting a healthy root system.

Water

Dinner plate dahlias are thirsty plants that require ample water, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and water deeply two to three times a week, or more frequently during hot, dry spells. Mulching can help conserve water and maintain soil moisture.

Temperature and Humidity

Dinner plate dahlias prefer moderate temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid planting them in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. High humidity can lead to heat stress and impact blooming.

Fertilizer

While dinner plate dahlias can bloom without fertilizer in rich soil, they will benefit from monthly fertilization during the growing season. Use a water-soluble or low-nitrogen fertilizer with a balanced formula to encourage healthy flowering. Adjust the fertilizer formula throughout the season to promote strong stems and impressive blooms.

Types of Dinner Plate Dahlias

When it comes to dinner plate dahlia cultivars, the options are endless. While some varieties may be named by color in garden centers, selecting named varieties ensures you provide the care they need. Here are some popular types of dinner plate dahlias:

• ‘American Dream’
• ‘Cafe au lait’
• ‘Emory Paul’
• ‘Tartan’

Pruning and Maintenance

To ensure your dinner plate dahlias produce the largest, most impressive blooms, proper pruning and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips to maximize bloom size and plant health:

• Remove small buds next to the central one in flower clusters to promote larger, well-formed blooms
• Pinch off a few inches of the central stem to encourage bushy growth
• Stake tall plants to prevent drooping or snapping stalks
• Consider using a supportive tomato cage for a less high-maintenance approach

Overwintering Tips

In colder regions below USDA hardiness zone 7, overwintering dinner plate dahlias is necessary to protect them from root rot and ensure they bloom again the following season. Follow these steps to overwinter your dahlias successfully:

1. Dig up the tubers after the first hard frost
2. Store the tubers in a cool, dark place
3. Replant the tubers in spring after the danger of frost has passed

Common Pests and Diseases

To protect your dinner plate dahlias from pests and diseases that can affect their blooms, be vigilant for the following:

• Leafhoppers
• Bacterial stem rot
• Powdery mildew
• Verticillium wilt

Maximizing Bloom Time and Appearance

To make the most of your dinner plate dahlias’ big blooms, consider the following tips:

Bloom Months

Depending on the cultivar and planting time, dinner plate dahlias typically start flowering in mid-July to early August. With proper care, you can enjoy the blooms for up to eight to ten weeks during the summer.

Flower Appearance

Dinner plate dahlias come in a wide range of colors and petal shapes, from flat to spiral to elongated cups. While they are usually fragrance-free, their stunning appearance makes up for it.

Tips for More Blooms

• Deadhead spent flowers to extend the bloom season
• Debud flower clusters to promote larger blooms
• Remember to overwinter tubers in colder regions for annual blooming

In conclusion, dinner plate dahlias are beautiful, show-stopping plants that can add elegance and drama to any garden. While they require a bit of extra care and maintenance, the rewards are well worth it. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can grow and care for dinner plate dahlias like a pro and enjoy their stunning blooms for years to come.