The Ellen Huston dahlia is a popular choice for adding vibrant color and classic form to outdoor spaces. Its striking appearance makes it a favored feature in garden beds, borders, and containers, enhancing any garden’s aesthetic.
Ellen Huston Dahlia Characteristics
The Ellen Huston dahlia features vibrant scarlet to orange-red flowers, up to 3.5 inches (9 cm) wide, contrasted by dark, bronze-tinged foliage. This striking combination creates a distinctive visual appeal.
As a dwarf bedding variety, it typically reaches 18 to 24 inches (45-60 cm) tall. Its compact growth suits front borders or container arrangements. The plant blooms profusely from mid-summer until the first frost, offering extended periods of color.
Planting Ellen Huston Dahlias
Ellen Huston dahlias require a site with full sun exposure, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot summers, light afternoon shade can be beneficial.
The soil must be fertile, humus-rich, and well-drained to prevent waterlogging. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting to improve structure and nutrient content. Plant tubers after the last spring frost, ensuring the crown is just above the soil surface. Space tubers about 10 cm (4 inches) apart for optimal growth.
Caring for Ellen Huston Dahlias
Ellen Huston dahlias need consistent moisture throughout their growing season. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to prevent the soil from drying out. Avoid overwatering, as saturated soil can lead to tuber rot.
Apply a balanced fertilizer according to package directions once plants are actively growing to support vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Due to their height, these dahlias may benefit from staking to protect stems from strong winds and heavy blooms. Regular deadheading, removing spent flowers, encourages more blooms and extends the flowering period.
Overwintering Ellen Huston Dahlias
In cooler climates where the ground freezes, Ellen Huston dahlia tubers are not hardy and require lifting for winter storage. This process occurs after the first hard frost, when foliage blackens and dies back, signaling it is time to dig up the tubers.
After digging, gently remove excess soil and allow tubers to dry or “cure” for a few days in a cool, dry place. Store cured tubers in a cool, dark, frost-free environment between 45-50°F (7-10°C). Place them in boxes covered with slightly moistened sand or peat moss; this helps prevent desiccation. Replant these stored tubers the following spring after the danger of frost has passed.