Dahlia ‘Caramel Antique’ is a highly sought-after variety, captivating gardeners with its sophisticated charm and unique color palette. This dahlia offers elegance and versatility, making it a popular choice for enhancing garden beds and creating exquisite floral arrangements. It provides a softer, more nuanced alternative to traditional bright white blooms.
Distinguishing Features of Dahlia ‘Caramel Antique’
The ‘Caramel Antique’ dahlia features creamy white blooms with hints of amber, vanilla, or moonlight yellow. Some blooms exhibit a champagne or blush undertone, creating a nuanced and elegant appearance. This variety commonly displays a Formal Decorative or Decorative Dahlia bloom form, characterized by symmetrical and often flattened petals.
Blooms measure 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12.7 cm) across. Plants reach a mature height of 3 to 4 feet (100 to 120 cm). Its early blooming stems make ‘Caramel Antique’ valued in the cut flower industry.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Dahlia ‘Caramel Antique’
Dahlia ‘Caramel Antique’ thrives in full sun, requiring six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade can be tolerated, especially in regions with intense afternoon heat, providing respite. The plant performs best in well-drained, rich, loamy soil amended with organic matter. An ideal soil pH range for dahlias is between 6.5 and 7.0.
Consistent moisture is essential for healthy growth and prolific blooming once established. Deep watering once or twice a week is recommended, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. ‘Caramel Antique’ benefits from a low-nitrogen fertilizer, often labeled as a “bloom food,” such as a 5-10-10 formulation. Apply this fertilizer 30 days after planting, then monthly throughout the growing season.
Planting and Ongoing Maintenance
Dahlia ‘Caramel Antique’ tubers should be planted outdoors after the last spring frost, once the soil temperature reaches 60°F (15°C). For earlier blooms, start tubers indoors in pots four to six weeks before the outdoor planting date. Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep.
Position the tuber with its “eye” or sprout facing upwards, then cover it with 2 to 3 inches of soil. Do not water immediately after planting unless the soil is exceptionally dry, as too much moisture can lead to rot. Space tubers 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) apart for adequate air circulation. Due to their mature height of 3 to 4 feet, staking is recommended for support.
To encourage bushier growth and more flowers, pinch off the top of the main stem when the plant reaches 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) tall, just above the third set of leaves. Regular deadheading, which means removing spent blooms, is beneficial. This encourages the plant to produce new buds and extends the flowering period.
Overwintering Your Dahlia Tubers
In regions with cold winters, in USDA Zones 3-7, dahlia tubers must be dug up and stored indoors to protect them from freezing temperatures. The optimal time to dig is after the foliage has been blackened by the first frost, or 10 to 14 days later, which allows the tubers to develop “eyes” for the next growing season. Cut the plant’s foliage back to a few inches above the ground.
Carefully dig around the tubers using a shovel or pitchfork, taking care not to damage them, and shake off excess soil. Some growers wash the tubers, while others prefer to leave the soil on. If washed, allow them to dry for 12 to 24 hours in a shaded, well-ventilated area until dry to the touch but not shriveled. Remove any damaged or rotting portions before storage.
Store tubers in a cool, dark, and frost-free environment. Ideal storage temperature ranges from 38-50°F (4-10°C), with 40-45°F (4-7°C) being optimal. Temperatures exceeding 50°F (10°C) can lead to premature sprouting, while freezing temperatures destroy the tubers. To maintain humidity and prevent dehydration or rot, pack tubers in a medium such as peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings. Ensure good air circulation and arrange tubers so they do not touch, checking periodically for signs of rot or shriveling.