The David Howard Dahlia is a stunning variety of dahlia flower, known for its beautiful, vibrant blooms and lush green foliage. This particular type of dahlia is a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and relatively low-maintenance care. In this article, we will delve into the world of David Howard Dahlias, exploring their history, growing conditions, and providing valuable tips for cultivating these gorgeous flowers.
Introduction to David Howard Dahlias
Dahlias are a type of flowering plant that originated in Mexico and Central America. They are known for their showy, pom-pom-like blooms, which come in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red. The David Howard Dahlia is a specific variety of dahlia that is prized for its large, 10-12 inch blooms, which are a deep, rich purple color with subtle pink undertones. This variety is considered a “dinner plate” dahlia, due to the large size of its blooms.
History of the David Howard Dahlia
The David Howard Dahlia was introduced in the 1960s and has since become a popular variety among dahlia enthusiasts. It is named after David Howard, a renowned dahlia breeder who was known for his work in developing new and exciting varieties of dahlias. The David Howard Dahlia is a testament to Howard’s dedication to the craft, and its beauty and uniqueness have made it a staple in many gardens around the world.
The David Howard Dahlia is a tender perennial, meaning that it is sensitive to frost and must be protected during the winter months in cooler climates. In warmer climates, it can be grown as a perennial, and will come back year after year with proper care. This variety of dahlia is also known for its relatively long blooming period, which can last from mid-summer to early fall.
Growing Conditions for David Howard Dahlias
To grow David Howard Dahlias, you will need to provide them with the right conditions. These flowers prefer full sun to partial shade, and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for dahlias is between 6.0 and 7.0, and they should be watered regularly, but not excessively. It’s also important to note that dahlias are susceptible to wind damage, so they should be staked or supported to prevent damage to the stems and blooms.
Planting and Care
To plant David Howard Dahlias, you will need to start with healthy, disease-free tubers. These can be purchased from a reputable nursery or garden center, and should be planted in the spring, after the last frost. The tubers should be planted 4-6 inches deep, and 12-18 inches apart, in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Once the plants are established, they will need to be watered regularly, and fertilized monthly with a balanced fertilizer. It's also important to deadhead the blooms regularly, to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. This can be done by cutting off the spent blooms, just above a leaf node, using a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bloom Size | 10-12 inches |
| Bloom Color | Deep purple with pink undertones |
| Plant Height | 36-48 inches |
| Plant Width | 18-24 inches |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Sun Requirements | Full sun to partial shade |
Tips for Growing David Howard Dahlias
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when growing David Howard Dahlias:
- Provide adequate support: As mentioned earlier, David Howard Dahlias can grow quite tall, and the large blooms can be prone to wind damage. To prevent this, you can stake the plants using bamboo stakes or a trellis, or provide support using a dahlia cage.
- Deadhead regularly: Deadheading the blooms regularly can help to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. This can be done by cutting off the spent blooms, just above a leaf node, using a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
- Water deeply: David Howard Dahlias prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They should be watered regularly, but not excessively, to prevent root rot and other problems.
- Fertilize monthly: Fertilizing the plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer can help to promote healthy growth and blooming. You can also add a high-phosphorus fertilizer to promote blooming.
Common Problems and Solutions
Here are a few common problems that can affect David Howard Dahlias, along with some solutions:
- Powdery mildew: This is a common fungal disease that can affect dahlias. To prevent it, make sure to provide good air circulation around the plants, and avoid overhead watering. You can also treat the plants with a fungicide if necessary.
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that can feed on the sap of the plants. To control them, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plants, causing damage. To control them, you can use copper tape or crushed eggshells around the plants, or hand-pick them at night.
What is the best time to plant David Howard Dahlias?
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The best time to plant David Howard Dahlias is in the spring, after the last frost. This will give the plants enough time to establish themselves before the hot summer weather sets in.
How often should I water my David Howard Dahlias?
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David Howard Dahlias should be watered regularly, but not excessively. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It’s best to water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
Can I grow David Howard Dahlias in containers?
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Yes, you can grow David Howard Dahlias in containers. Just make sure to use a large enough container, and provide the plants with adequate support. You’ll also need to water and fertilize the plants more frequently, as the soil in containers can dry out quickly.
