The ‘Dahlia Bluetiful’ is a unique dahlia variety, sought after for its distinctive appearance. It is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add an unusual shade to their garden palette, standing out with its alluring color and elegant form.
Understanding Dahlia Bluetiful
The ‘Bluetiful’ dahlia is known for its unique lavender-blue or lilac-purple color, one of the closest to true blue in dahlias. This informal decorative dahlia features fully double, ruffled blooms, 5 to 6 inches (12-15 cm) across, with a soft, wavy appearance. ‘Bluetiful’ typically grows 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm) tall, making it suitable for the middle or back of a border. It maintains an upright habit and blooms from midsummer until the first frost.
Planting Dahlia Bluetiful
Plant ‘Bluetiful’ dahlia tubers in spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C). Planting too early in cold, wet soil can cause tuber rot. These dahlias thrive in full sun, ideally 6 to 8 hours daily, with morning sun helping prevent fungal issues. They prefer well-draining, rich, humus-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Amending heavy clay soil with compost or aged manure improves drainage and aeration, which is important as soggy soil can cause tubers to rot.
Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep, wide enough for the tuber. Position the tuber with the “eye” or sprout facing upwards, covering it with 1 to 2 inches of soil. As the plant grows, gradually fill in the remaining soil. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart for good air circulation and growth. After planting, water thoroughly once to settle the soil and remove air pockets, then refrain from watering until green sprouts emerge to prevent rot.
Ongoing Care for Dahlia Bluetiful
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Bluetiful’ dahlias once sprouted, especially during dry periods. Deep water once or twice a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Water at the base of the plant to avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms; apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 3-4 weeks until September. Phosphorus-rich fertilizers encourage flowering. Taller ‘Bluetiful’ dahlias, which can reach 4 feet, often require staking to prevent stems from toppling, especially when laden with large blooms. Install stakes at planting time to avoid damaging tubers. Ensure good air circulation and regularly check for common dahlia pests like aphids, slugs, earwigs, and spider mites. Keeping plants healthy and avoiding overwatering helps deter issues like root rot and powdery mildew.
Maximizing Blooms and Winter Care
To encourage abundant and continuous blooms, deadhead spent flowers. This redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to new flower buds. Identify spent blooms by their pointed, softer appearance compared to new, round, firm buds. Use sharp, sterilized pruners to cut the flower stem just above a leaf node or where the flower stem intersects with a leaf. Regularly cutting blooms for bouquets also promotes more flowering.
Winter Care for Dahlia Bluetiful
In colder climates (zones 7 and lower) where winter frost is common, ‘Bluetiful’ dahlia tubers are not hardy and must be dug up and stored indoors to survive the winter. After the first hard frost has blackened the foliage, cut stems back to a few inches above ground. Carefully dig up tubers, ensuring not to damage them by digging at least 12 inches away from the stem. Allow tubers to dry and cure for a few days in a frost-free, dry location out of direct sunlight. Once dried, gently remove excess soil, leaving 1 to 2 inches of stem, but avoid washing them unless necessary due to heavy clay soil.
Store tuber clumps in a ventilated box or basket filled with a medium such as peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings, ensuring good air circulation. Optimal storage is a cool, dark, dry location (40-50°F / 4-10°C, 75%-85% humidity). Check tubers periodically, removing any that show signs of rot or shriveling to prevent issues from spreading.