Dahlia ‘Viking’ is a popular choice for gardeners, known for striking blooms that add vibrant color and unique form to landscapes and floral arrangements.
Understanding Dahlia ‘Viking’
Dahlia ‘Viking’ is a pompon dahlia, recognized for its perfectly spherical, double flowers with silky, inwardly curved petals, creating a dense, ball-shaped appearance. The flowers display a rich, deep red color, often described as wine red, which maintains intensity and contrasts vibrantly with the lush, dark green foliage.
The ‘Viking’ dahlia typically grows to a height of 75 to 120 cm (approximately 30 to 48 inches). Sturdy stems support the upright blooms. With blooms 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) in diameter, these compact flowers add unique texture and color to any garden design.
Planting Dahlia ‘Viking’
Plant Dahlia ‘Viking’ tubers in spring, after the last frost and when the soil has warmed sufficiently. A good indicator is a soil temperature of approximately 15°C (60°F), or around the time tomatoes are typically planted outdoors. Choose a full sun location (6-8 hours daily) for optimal growth and abundant blooms. In intense heat, some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Ideal soil for Dahlia ‘Viking’ is well-draining and rich in organic matter; amend with compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility. Plant tubers 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) deep with the “eye” facing upwards. Space tubers 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 inches) apart for adequate air circulation as plants mature. For taller varieties like ‘Viking’, stake at planting to prevent damage when support becomes necessary.
Caring for Dahlia ‘Viking’
Dahlia ‘Viking’ requires consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Once tubers sprout, water deeply two to three times weekly. Avoid overwatering before sprouts emerge to prevent tuber rot. Increase watering during hot, dry spells to prevent soil from drying out.
Dahlias are heavy feeders, requiring regular fertilization for vigorous growth and prolific blooming. Apply a low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich liquid fertilizer every three to four weeks from mid-summer until early fall, stopping once plants are actively blooming or by late August if tubers are to be overwintered. Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Pinching the central stalk when the plant is about a foot tall promotes bushier growth and more blooms.
Overwintering Dahlia ‘Viking’
Dahlia ‘Viking’ is not winter hardy in all climates, requiring tubers to be lifted and stored in USDA zones 3-7. Dig up tubers after the first hard frost blackens foliage, usually in autumn. Carefully remove clumps, shake off excess soil, and allow tubers to dry for a day or two before cleaning with a hose.
Divide dahlia clumps in fall after digging or in spring before replanting; each division needs a piece of the crown with at least one viable “eye” for future growth. After cleaning and dividing, store tubers in a cool, dry, frost-free location (ideally 2-7°C / 35-45°F). Use materials like coarse vermiculite, peat moss, or sand, ensuring good ventilation and preventing contact.
Common Issues and Solutions
Dahlia ‘Viking’ can encounter pests and diseases, though many are manageable with timely intervention.
Slugs and snails feed on young dahlia leaves. Control them with slug bait at planting, physical barriers (e.g., crushed eggshells, copper tape), or hand-collecting at night. Starting tubers indoors helps plants develop stronger leaves before outdoor exposure.
Powdery mildew, a fungal disease, appears as white spots on leaves, especially in humid conditions or with poor air circulation. Prevent it with adequate spacing and pruning for airflow. If it occurs, remove infected leaves and consider applying a fungicide, milk-and-water solution, or neem oil.
Leggy growth or a lack of blooms can indicate insufficient sunlight or improper fertilization. Ensure full sun exposure and a balanced, phosphorus-rich feeding regimen for robust growth and flowering.