Dahlias are popular garden plants known for their vibrant and diverse blooms. The ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlia is a striking addition to any garden space. It offers unique visual appeal and provides continuous color from mid-summer until the first frost.
Distinctive Characteristics
The ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlia is recognizable for its unique flower form, often described as a single or collarette type. Its blooms typically measure between 7 to 10 centimeters (3 to 4 inches) across. The petals display a striking color combination, with shades of fuchsia or purple-pink on the outside, gradually fading to a bright yellow or cream-yellow at their base, creating a luminous center.
Airy blossoms are held aloft on sturdy, dark stems, appearing to float above the green foliage. The plant generally reaches a mature height of about 60 to 100 centimeters (2 to 3.3 feet). It blooms profusely from mid-summer, typically July, through autumn, often until the first hard frost.
Planting ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlia
Plant ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlias after all danger of spring frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached approximately 15°C (60°F). They thrive in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. Select a site with rich, well-draining soil, ideally with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to significantly improve drainage and aeration.
When planting the tubers, dig a hole about 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) deep and wide enough to comfortably accommodate the tuber. Position the tuber with the “eye” or sprout facing upwards; if uncertain, laying it on its side is also acceptable. Cover with approximately 5 to 7.5 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) of soil initially. Avoid immediate watering after planting, as this can lead to rot; instead, water sparingly only after new green growth emerges above the soil surface.
Ongoing Care for ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlia
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlias, especially during dry periods. Deep watering two to three times a week helps keep the soil moist without becoming waterlogged, allowing the top 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms; a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 blend, is beneficial, applied approximately 30 days after planting and then monthly until early fall. Avoid high-nitrogen products, as these can promote foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pinching plants when they have three to four sets of leaves encourages branching and a bushier plant with more blooms. This involves snipping off the top just above a leaf set. Deadheading spent blooms is crucial for continuous flowering, as it prevents the plant from diverting energy into seed production. Trim faded flowers just above where the flower stem meets a leaf. Due to their height, ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlias may benefit from staking to provide support and prevent stems from breaking, particularly in windy conditions or with heavy blooms. Placing stakes at planting time prevents damage to the tubers later.
Overwintering ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlia Tubers
In climates colder than USDA Zones 8-10, ‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlia tubers are not hardy and require lifting and storing for winter. This process begins after the first hard frost has killed the foliage. Allow tubers to remain in the ground for about two weeks after foliage dies back to prepare for dormancy. Gently dig up tubers with a garden fork, being careful to avoid damage.
After digging, cut stems back to 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches). Clean off excess soil from the tubers but avoid rinsing them immediately, as this can encourage rot. Air dry tubers under cover for 24 hours to a few days until completely dry. Store dried tubers in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as a basement, where temperatures remain between 4.5°C and 10°C (40°F and 50°F). Placing them in newspaper-lined cardboard boxes or containers filled with lightly moistened peat moss, sand, or vermiculite helps maintain appropriate humidity and prevents them from drying out or rotting. Periodically check stored tubers for any signs of rot or shriveling throughout the winter.
Addressing Common Issues
‘Bright Eyes’ Dahlias can encounter challenges during their growing season. Common pests include aphids, slugs, earwigs, and spider mites. Aphids cause distorted leaves; slugs and snails leave irregular holes in foliage. Earwigs feed on buds and leaves, and spider mites cause yellowing and stippling, especially in hot, dry conditions.
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew (white coating on leaves) and botrytis (gray mold, brown rotting spots) can also affect dahlias. Maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overwatering helps prevent these issues. Prompt identification and management, such as removing affected plant parts or applying appropriate organic controls, can help maintain plant health.