Unveiling Dahlia ‘Soulman’
Dahlia ‘Soulman’ is an anemone-flowered dahlia known for its distinct and moody coloration. Its blooms typically feature rich, velvety maroon or dark crimson petals with a darker, often chocolate-colored, ruffled center. As the flowers mature, the tips of the outer petals can sometimes turn crimson, adding to their visual depth. This variety generally produces medium-sized blooms, ranging from 3 to 6 inches in diameter.
The unique anemone form, characterized by a ring of flat outer petals surrounding a dense cluster of shorter, tubular florets in the center, makes ‘Soulman’ a distinctive choice for gardens and cut flower arrangements. Plants grow on dark stems, which contrast nicely with their lush green, ferny foliage. ‘Soulman’ can reach a height of approximately 3.5 to 4 feet, making it a noticeable presence in the garden.
Planting Dahlia ‘Soulman’
Optimal planting time for Dahlia ‘Soulman’ tubers is in late spring, after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature consistently reaches 60°F (15°C) or warmer. For an earlier start, tubers can be potted indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date and then transplanted outdoors.
Dahlias thrive in a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily, particularly morning sun, and benefits from protection against strong winds. The soil should be rich, well-draining, and have a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. To prepare the planting site, amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like aged manure, compost, or peat moss to improve drainage and aeration, loosening the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches.
When planting, dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep, placing the tuber horizontally with the “eye” or growing point facing upwards. For larger varieties like ‘Soulman’, space tubers about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation. Cover the tuber with 2 to 3 inches of soil, and avoid watering immediately after planting to prevent rot, waiting until green shoots emerge.
Ongoing Care for Dahlia ‘Soulman’
Once sprouted, consistent watering is important. Dahlias require about 1 inch of water per week, increasing during hot, dry periods. Water deeply two to three times a week to encourage deep root development. Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent tuber rot.
Dahlias benefit from a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 or similar ratio. The first application can be about 30 days after planting, followed by feeding every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season for in-ground plants, or every 2-3 weeks for container-grown dahlias. Over-fertilizing with nitrogen can lead to lush foliage but fewer blooms and weaker tubers.
When plants reach about 12 inches tall, pinching out the central growing tip encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Removing spent blooms, known as deadheading, consistently promotes the production of new flowers and extends the blooming period. Given its mature height, ‘Dahlia Soulman’ will likely require staking to support its stems and prevent them from falling over, particularly as the flowers become heavy. Placing stakes at planting time prevents accidental tuber damage later.
Protecting Your Dahlia ‘Soulman’
Dahlia ‘Soulman’ is susceptible to common garden pests like slugs, earwigs, aphids, and spider mites. Slugs and snails are destructive to young foliage; deter them by keeping the soil surface dry or using organic repellents. Aphids and spider mites are sap-sucking insects that cause distorted leaves and reduced vigor; consistent watering helps prevent spider mite infestations.
Dahlias may also encounter diseases like powdery mildew, appearing as a white coating on leaves in humid conditions. Good air circulation through proper spacing and stripping lower leaves helps prevent this. Botrytis blight (gray mold) can cause brown, rotting spots on flowers and leaves, particularly in wet weather. Viral diseases, often spread by insects like aphids and thrips, can lead to mottled leaves and distorted growth, and have no cure once infected.
In colder climates (zones 7 and below), dahlia tubers do not survive winter in the ground and must be dug up and stored. After the first hard frost causes the foliage to blacken, cut stems back to a few inches above the ground and wait approximately two weeks before carefully lifting the tubers. Gently remove excess soil, avoiding vigorous washing which can introduce fungi and bruising.
Allow the tubers to dry for 1-2 days in a cool, indirect light location to cure before storing. Store them in cardboard boxes, plastic bins, or paper bags, layered with materials like peat moss, vermiculite, or dry compost to maintain humidity and prevent desiccation or rot. Regularly check stored tubers throughout winter for any signs of rot or shriveling.