The Essential Guide To The Dahlia
Botanical Name: Dahlia spp
Common Name: Dahlia
General Knowledge: The Dahlia, known for its vivid and intricate blooms, is originally from the highland areas of Mexico and Guatemala. In Australia, dahlias are prized for their dramatic beauty and are a favourite for summer and autumn garden displays, as well as being featured prominently in competitive horticulture. A fun fact about dahlias is that they were once used as a source of food by the indigenous peoples, with the tubers being treated as a root vegetable similar to a sweet potato.
Colour Range: Dahlias are available in almost every colour, including white, yellow, orange, pink, dark pink, red, dark red, lavender, purple, black, light blend, bronze, flame, dark blend, variegated, and bicolour.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Dahlias are typically available from September to November in Australia
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, Dahlias are commercially grown in Australia. Some farms specialize in growing Dahlias and selling them directly to florists, as well as providing Dahlia tubers to home gardeners and flower farmers across Australia.
Buying tips: Buyers should prioritise locally grown dahlias. The ideal maturity is when the blooms are more than halfway open. Steer clear of dahlias with browning, wilting, or dropping lower petals. The leaves should be inspected for any signs of powdery mildew.
Design tips and advice: In the realm of design, dahlias play a focal role. The grandeur of large dahlia blooms is best showcased in a spacious, low float bowl. These flowers excel in a myriad of styles, especially in low table settings and candelabra-style arrangements. They also gracefully adorn sympathy arrangements. Their generous water consumption demands frequent top-ups to ensure the arrangements remain well-hydrated.
Flower maturity: Purchasing dahlias that have more than half of their blooms open is a good indicator of the right maturity.
Expected vase life: Typically, dahlias last between 5 to 8 days when arranged in a vase.
Typical stem length: Their stems can grow up to 60 cm in length. However, some Dahlia cultivars have large flower heads, measuring up to 25 cm across. These heavy heads may not be adequately supported by the stem.
Typical bunch size: A bunch usually consists of 10 stems, but this number can vary.
Floral preservatives to use: Change the water in the vase every two or. three days, adding a floral preservative like aspirin or. sugar to help the blooms last longer.
Ethylene sensitivity: Generally, dahlias are not sensitive to ethylene, but some cultivars might show sensitivity.
Temperature requirements: Dahlias should be stored in cool environments, ideally between 2–4 °C. However, extended cold storage is not advisable due to their short vase life.
How to avoid potential problems: Ensuring consistent hydration is paramount for dahlias. Cutting the stems at a slant with sharp secateurs or a knife facilitates better water absorption. Employ the recommended flower food for optimal results. Scalding is to be avoided.
Cooling and cool rooms: While dahlias can be stored in temperatures of 2–4 °C, prolonged storage under these conditions is not recommended due to their short-lived vase duration.
Hydration and vase solutions: To maximize freshness and lifespan, cut the stems at an angle and utilize the appropriate flower food. Dahlias are particularly thirsty flowers, so replenishing the water regularly is crucial.
Care of ethylene sensitive products: Given the potential ethylene sensitivity in some cultivars, it's beneficial to be cautious about their exposure to ethylene sources.