The ‘Ben Huston’ dahlia is a popular cultivar known for its large, vibrant blooms. Its impressive size and rich coloration make it a favorite for garden displays and cut flower arrangements, adding a warm focal point to any landscape.
Understanding ‘Ben Huston’ Dahlia
The ‘Ben Huston’ dahlia is an informal decorative dinnerplate variety, known for its substantial blooms. Flowers typically measure 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) in diameter, sometimes reaching up to 22 cm. Its warm coloration blends apricot, peachy orange, and salmon, often with yellow or bronze undertones.
This Canadian-bred variety grows 36 to 40 inches (90-100 cm) tall, with an upright habit. Its strong stems support the large blooms, making it an excellent choice for cut flowers. ‘Ben Huston’ consistently produces flowers from mid-summer until the first frost.
Planting ‘Ben Huston’ Dahlias
Planting ‘Ben Huston’ dahlias requires careful site selection and soil preparation. They thrive in full sun (at least six hours daily) for optimal blooming. Well-draining soil is important, as tubers are prone to rot in overly wet conditions. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
Plant after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach 55-60°F (13-16°C). Place tubers 4 to 6 inches deep, with the “eye” facing upwards. Space ‘Ben Huston’ tubers 18 to 24 inches apart to accommodate their mature size. Insert a sturdy stake at planting for early support. After planting, avoid watering until sprouts emerge to prevent tuber rot.
Ongoing Care for ‘Ben Huston’ Dahlias
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Ben Huston’ dahlias, especially during dry periods. Once established (around 8-12 inches tall), water once or twice weekly. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are recommended to deliver water directly to roots, keeping foliage dry and preventing fungal diseases. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
For robust growth and abundant blooms, fertilize ‘Ben Huston’ dahlias with a low-nitrogen formula (e.g., 5-10-10 or 10-20-20), as excessive nitrogen promotes leafy growth over flowers. Fertilize about 30 days after planting, then every 3-4 weeks until blooming begins.
Due to their height and large blooms, ‘Ben Huston’ dahlias need strong support to prevent stems from bending. Staking methods include placing sturdy posts or canes next to tubers at planting and tying stems as they grow. For rows, the “corral method” with T-posts and string is effective. Regular deadheading promotes continuous flowering by redirecting energy from seed production to new blooms. Remove spent flowers by cutting the stem back to the first healthy leaves or a new bud.
Overwintering ‘Ben Huston’ Dahlia Tubers
In regions with winter frost, ‘Ben Huston’ dahlia tubers must be dug up and stored to protect them. After the first hard frost blackens the foliage, carefully lift tubers from the ground. Gently remove excess soil, then air dry them in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few days to a week until the skin is firm.
Once dry, inspect tubers for damaged or rotten sections and trim them. Store cleaned tubers in a cool, dark, frost-free location (40-50°F / 4-10°C, 70-85% humidity). Use storage mediums like vermiculite, peat moss, or sawdust to maintain moisture without promoting rot. Place tubers in breathable containers, separated by the medium to prevent rot spread. Periodically check stored tubers for shriveling or rot, adjusting humidity or removing affected tubers as needed.
Troubleshooting Common ‘Ben Huston’ Dahlia Issues
Even with proper care, ‘Ben Huston’ dahlias may face challenges. Stunted growth or lack of blooms can result from insufficient sunlight, over-fertilization (especially too much nitrogen), or improper planting depth. Ensure full sun and use a low-nitrogen fertilizer. Consistent watering after establishment is also important, as underwatering stresses the plant and reduces flowering.
Pests like slugs, snails, aphids, spider mites, and earwigs can affect dahlias.
Slugs and snails chew on young leaves; control them by hand-picking, using diatomaceous earth, or beer traps.
Aphids can be dislodged with a strong water spray or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites, thriving in hot, dry conditions, cause leaf stippling; manage them with regular misting, hosing plants, or neem oil.
Earwigs feed on leaves and petals; a tidy garden helps deter them.
Common diseases include powdery mildew and botrytis (gray mold). Powdery mildew, a white coating on leaves, is often linked to poor air circulation and high humidity. Improve air circulation through proper spacing, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected foliage.
Botrytis causes grayish-brown mold on flowers and leaves, especially in wet weather. Remove infected parts and ensure good air circulation as key preventative measures. Regular inspection allows for early identification and treatment of problems.