Dahlia ‘Bonesta’ is a popular and visually striking dahlia variety, celebrated for its unique aesthetic in garden displays. This decorative dahlia brings vibrant color and form to garden beds, making it a favored selection for many gardeners. It consistently delivers a beautiful floral presence throughout its blooming season.
Distinctive Features of Bonesta Dahlia
Dahlia ‘Bonesta’ distinguishes itself with captivating blooms that showcase a blend of creamy white and soft pink, often accented by irregular fuchsia or rose-colored streaks. These decorative-form flowers typically measure between 4 to 6 inches across, contributing a notable presence to the garden.
The plant generally reaches a height of 36 to 45 inches. ‘Bonesta’ dahlias typically bloom from midsummer (July) until the first frost (often October). This extended bloom period, combined with its sturdy stems, makes ‘Bonesta’ an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.
Planting and Growing Bonesta Dahlia
Tubers should be planted outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed, when the soil temperature consistently reaches 60°F (15°C). For optimal growth, select a location that receives full sun, ideally at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily.
Partial afternoon shade can be beneficial in regions with intense summer heat. The soil should be fertile, well-draining, and have a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Amending the soil with 2 to 3 inches of compost or manure before planting helps improve fertility and drainage.
Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep and place the tuber horizontally with the “eye” or growing point facing upwards. Cover the tuber with 2 to 3 inches of soil initially. Space individual tubers about 12 to 24 inches apart. After planting, water sparingly until green shoots emerge. Once sprouts appear, begin regular, deep watering.
Ongoing Care for Bonesta Dahlia
Once established, ‘Bonesta’ dahlias require deep watering two to three times per week, or daily in containers or during hot, dry periods, ensuring moisture reaches 8-10 inches deep. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of foliar diseases.
Fertilization is important for continuous blooming. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 blend, approximately 30 days after planting. Apply every three to four weeks for garden plants, or every two to three weeks for container-grown dahlias. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers and extend the blooming period. Taller ‘Bonesta’ plants require staking to prevent stems from bending or breaking, especially when heavy with blooms or in windy conditions. Place stakes at planting time or when plants are about a foot tall, positioning them about 3 inches from the stem, and tie growing stems to the support.
Inspect plants regularly for common pests like aphids, slugs, snails, and spider mites. Address issues with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by hand-picking pests. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
In colder climates (USDA Zones 7 and below), ‘Bonesta’ dahlia tubers are not winter hardy. Lift them after the first hard frost blackens the foliage. Clean the tubers, allow them to dry for a few days in a frost-free location, then store them in a cool, dry place, such as in peat moss or sand, until the next spring.