The ‘Bocherell’ Dahlia is a decorative cultivar known for its elegant, full blooms, which can reach diameters of 12 to 15 centimeters. Its petals display a delicate transition from apricot hues at the edges to a soft, buttery yellow at their centers, creating a distinctive color palette. This variety is known for its tall, sturdy stems, often growing to heights of 90 to 120 centimeters, making it a prominent feature in any garden.
Planting Your Bocherell Dahlia
Proper site selection and soil preparation are key for ‘Bocherell’ Dahlia cultivation. These plants thrive in locations that receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily, ideally with morning sun, and benefit from protection against strong winds. The ideal soil is rich, well-draining, and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Improving heavy clay or sandy soils with organic matter like compost or aged manure enhances drainage and aeration.
Plant ‘Bocherell’ Dahlia tubers in the spring, after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to about 15°C (60°F). Dig a hole approximately 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) deep, placing the tuber horizontally with any visible ‘eyes’ facing upward. Space tubers about 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches) apart to allow for mature growth and adequate air circulation. Avoid watering immediately after planting; wait until green shoots emerge above the ground to prevent tuber rot.
Ongoing Cultivation
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Bocherell’ Dahlias once they are established. Water deeply once or twice a week, providing about 2.5 to 5 centimeters (1 to 2 inches) of water, especially during dry periods. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent the development of fungal diseases. Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep foliage dry and reduce disease risk.
Fertilizing supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Once plants are established and again when flower buds begin to form, apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer. Excessive nitrogen can promote lush foliage at the expense of fewer blooms. A high potash fertilizer can be beneficial every few weeks during the summer to encourage strong flower production.
Given their height, ‘Bocherell’ Dahlias require staking to prevent stems from breaking under the weight of their large blooms or from strong winds. Install stakes, such as sturdy wooden or bamboo poles, at planting time, about 7.5 centimeters (3 inches) away from the tuber. As the plant grows, tie the main stems loosely to the stake using soft twine or plant ties, allowing for some natural movement.
Pinching the central growth tip when the plant is about 25 to 40 centimeters (10 to 16 inches) tall and has at least four sets of leaves encourages bushier growth and more flowers. This redirects energy to lateral branches, resulting in a fuller plant with more blooms. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, is important for continuous blooming, as it encourages new flowers by preventing seed production.
Protecting and Storing Your Dahlia
Dahlias can be susceptible to common garden pests such as aphids, slugs, spider mites, and earwigs. Regularly inspecting plants helps in early detection of these pests. Organic control methods include spraying with neem oil or insecticidal soap, hand-picking larger pests, and introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs. Slugs and snails, which can cause irregular holes in leaves, can be managed with diatomaceous earth or copper barriers.
Preventing diseases like powdery mildew and stem rot involves promoting good air circulation around plants and avoiding overhead watering. Ensuring proper drainage also minimizes the risk of root and stem issues. Maintaining plant health through proper watering and feeding enhances natural resistance.
In colder climates, ‘Bocherell’ Dahlia tubers are not winter hardy and must be dug up for storage after the first hard frost blackens the foliage. Carefully dig up the tubers, avoiding damage. Clean off excess soil and dry tubers for a few days in a cool, shaded area.
Store them in a cool, dark, frost-free location (4-10°C / 40-50°F) with good ventilation, such as a basement or unheated garage. Placing tubers in a medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings helps maintain humidity and prevents drying or rotting. Periodically check stored tubers, removing any showing signs of rot or shriveling.
Enjoying Your Bocherell Dahlia
‘Bocherell’ Dahlias are valued as cut flowers, offering a long vase life and elegant appearance. For maximum vase life, cut blooms in the early morning when fully open. Use sharp, clean shears to make a long cut, placing stems promptly into cool water.
Beyond their use in floral arrangements, ‘Bocherell’ Dahlias create a vibrant display in garden beds and borders. Their tall stature and striking colors add visual interest and color to garden designs. They can also be grown in large containers, bringing their beauty to patios or smaller spaces.