Distinctive Features
‘Dahlia Mystic Spirit’ is a captivating dahlia variety, recognized for its striking visual appeal. Its dark, almost black, foliage provides a dramatic backdrop for its vibrant blooms. The deep color of the leaves enhances the flowers’ visual impact.
The flowers are single-type dahlias, approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. Each bloom features soft apricot petals with blush peach overtones. A contrasting deep burgundy central disc attracts pollinators. This dahlia typically reaches about 30-32 inches (75-80 cm) in height and spreads around 18-24 inches (30-60 cm), forming an upright, bushy growth habit.
Planting and Site Selection
This dahlia thrives in full sunlight, ideally receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. While it can tolerate some partial shade, full sun exposure is preferred.
Well-draining, humus-rich soil is important. Dahlias do not tolerate waterlogged conditions; amending heavy clay soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss can improve drainage. Plant tubers in spring, after the last risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Tubers should be planted about 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) deep, ensuring the “eye,” or the small bump from which the stem will grow, faces upward.
Ongoing Maintenance
These dahlias prefer consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods; deep watering a couple of times a week is often beneficial. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. While they exhibit moderate drought tolerance once established, regular watering is important for vibrant flowering.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Dahlias respond well to low-nitrogen fertilizers, such as a 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 blend. Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Fertilize monthly during the growing season, or every 6-8 weeks as the plant matures, applying about 2 tablespoons per plant around the base. Regularly removing spent flowers (deadheading) encourages more blooms and maintains a tidy appearance.
Protecting Your Dahlia
Dahlias are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but issues can arise. Common pests include aphids, slugs, snails, earwigs, spider mites, and thrips, causing damage like holes in leaves, distorted growth, or yellowing foliage. Regularly inspecting plants, especially the undersides of leaves, helps early detection. Integrated pest management approaches, including natural predators or insecticidal soaps, can be effective.
Diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis blight can also affect dahlias. Maintaining good air circulation through proper plant spacing and promptly removing fallen leaves and debris can prevent disease spread. In colder climates (USDA zones 7 and below), ‘Dahlia Mystic Spirit’ tubers are not winter-hardy and must be dug up before the first hard frost. After digging, allow tubers to dry for a few days, then store indoors in a cool, dark, frost-free location (40-50°F / 5-10°C), often in materials like peat moss or vermiculite to prevent rotting.