‘Dahlia Great Silence’ is a highly regarded variety, cherished for its beauty and elegant presence in the landscape. Its striking appearance and reliable performance make it a popular choice for enhancing garden designs and adding visual interest.
Characteristics of ‘Dahlia Great Silence’
‘Dahlia Great Silence’ is a decorative dahlia known for its large, double flowers, typically 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) in diameter. The petals display a soft rose-pink or coral hue, often with a golden yellow flush at their base or center, creating a striking two-tone effect.
The plant has a bushy, upright growth habit with robust, dark stems. It generally reaches 35-48 inches (90-120 cm) in height and spreads 18-24 inches (30-60 cm), adding height and volume to garden beds and borders.
Cultivating ‘Dahlia Great Silence’
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
‘Dahlia Great Silence’ thrives in locations with at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily. Well-drained, loamy soil is preferable, as dahlias do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic. For heavy clay, amend with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Planting
Dahlia tubers should be planted in spring, after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach 60°F (15°C). Plant tubers 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep, with the “eye” facing upward. Space tubers 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart for adequate growth and air circulation.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for dahlias. After planting, water sparingly until sprouts appear. Once growth begins, water deeply two to three times a week, soaking the root zone. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. In hot or dry climates, more frequent watering may be necessary.
Fertilizing
Dahlias benefit from regular feeding. During initial growth, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support foliage and stem development. As plants mature and bud formation begins, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage more blooms. Apply fertilizer every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season, ceasing in September to prepare tubers for winter.
Staking and Support
Given their height and large blooms, ‘Dahlia Great Silence’ often requires support. Install sturdy stakes or cages at planting time, tying stems as the plant grows. This helps maintain upright growth and supports the weight of developing flowers.
Pinching and Deadheading
Pinch the central growing tip when the plant is 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall with 3-5 sets of leaves. This encourages branching, leading to bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, directs energy to new buds, promoting continuous blooming until frost.
Pest and Disease Management
Dahlias can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, slugs, snails, spider mites, and thrips. Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests like stunted growth or holes in leaves. For control, consider insecticidal soap or introducing natural predators. Keeping the garden tidy and avoiding excessive moisture helps deter earwigs and fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Winter Care for ‘Dahlia Great Silence’
In colder climates (USDA Zones 7 and below), ‘Dahlia Great Silence’ tubers need to be lifted and stored indoors for winter. After the first hard frost blackens foliage, cut stems to 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) and carefully dig up tubers.
Allow tubers to dry and cure for a few days in a frost-free, shaded location. Gently remove excess soil once dry. Store tubers in a cool, dark, dry place, such as an unheated basement, where temperatures remain between 40-50°F (4-10°C). Pack them in peat moss or vermiculite to maintain moisture and prevent shriveling.
Enhancing Your ‘Dahlia Great Silence’ Display
‘Dahlia Great Silence’ blooms are valued as cut flowers for their size, vibrant color, and sturdy stems. Harvest blooms when nearly fully open, preferably in the early morning or late evening for optimal hydration. Immediately place cut stems into warm water with flower food for conditioning.
This dahlia makes an excellent focal point in garden designs. Its coral-pink and golden hues blend well with various garden companions. Position these dahlias in borders, beds, or large containers to create a captivating visual impact, whether as individual specimens or part of a mixed planting.