The Bonanza Dahlia is a popular and vibrant addition to gardens, celebrated for its unique beauty and abundant blooms throughout the growing season. Its striking appearance makes it a desirable choice for adding a burst of color to outdoor spaces.
Bonanza Dahlia Characteristics
The Bonanza Dahlia is a ball-form dahlia, characterized by tightly rolled petals that create a spherical bloom. Its color palette blends warm shades of yellow, orange, and pink, often with deeper merlot or purple tones near the center. Variations include mango, apricot, and raspberry hues.
Individual blooms measure around 3 to 4 inches across. The plant grows to a mature height of 3 to 5 feet (90 to 150 cm), creating a substantial presence in the garden.
Growing Bonanza Dahlias
Bonanza Dahlias thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In regions with intense summer heat, some afternoon shade can protect blooms. The soil should be well-draining, rich, and loamy, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic). Incorporating aged manure or compost before planting improves soil structure and nutrient content. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flower production.
Plant Bonanza Dahlia tubers after the last spring frost, when soil temperature reaches about 60°F (15°C). Plant tubers 4 to 6 inches deep, with the “eye” facing upwards, and spaced 12 to 24 inches apart for air circulation. After planting, do not water tubers until green growth emerges. Overwatering at this stage can cause rot before roots establish.
Once sprouted and actively growing, plants require consistent moisture, 1 to 2 inches of water per week through deep watering. During dry spells or high heat, more frequent watering may be necessary. Fertilization can begin about 30 days after planting, using a low-nitrogen formula (e.g., 5-10-10 blend), applied monthly or every three to four weeks.
Regular deadheading, which involves removing spent blooms, encourages the plant to produce more flowers throughout the season. For taller varieties, staking the plants at planting time is advisable to provide support and prevent stems from breaking, especially in windy or rainy conditions. This helps maintain the plant’s upright habit and protects its abundant blossoms.
Winter Care for Bonanza Dahlias
In colder climates where ground freezes, Bonanza Dahlia tubers need to be lifted and stored indoors over winter. Dig tubers after the first hard frost blackens foliage, or one to two weeks later. This allows tubers to toughen their skins for storage.
To dig, cut plant stalks back to 4 to 6 inches above ground. Carefully loosen soil around the tuber clump with a pitchfork, avoiding damage. Once lifted, gently brush off excess soil; washing is optional.
After digging, tubers need a curing period to dry slightly before storage. Air dry them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for 24 to 48 hours, or up to several weeks, to prevent rot.
Store tubers in a cool, dark, and dry location that remains frost-free, such as an unheated basement or a garage. The ideal storage temperature is between 40-45°F (4-7°C), with a humidity level around 85%. Pack tubers in a storage medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings within cardboard boxes, paper bags, or crates that allow for air circulation.
Periodically check stored tubers, about once a month, for signs of rot, mold, or shriveling. Promptly addressing these issues helps preserve tubers for spring replanting.