Felida Solar Flare Dahlia brings striking beauty to any garden. It captivates with its vivid, abundant blooms, transforming landscapes into vibrant spectacles. This dahlia variety is a favored choice for adding drama and color to outdoor spaces. Its popularity stems from its eye-catching flowers produced throughout the growing season.
Understanding Felida Solar Flare Dahlia Characteristics
Bloom Characteristics
Felida Solar Flare dahlia features large, fully double blooms with a captivating blend of colors. These flowers typically showcase vibrant pink and sunny yellow petals, sometimes with fiery orange, golden-yellow, or coral hues. The semi-cactus bloom form has loosely rolled petals with forked tips, creating a radiant, sunburst effect. Individual blossoms measure 5 to 6 inches (12 to 16 cm) across.
Plant Size and Use
This dahlia reaches 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) tall with a 24-inch (60 cm) spread. Its sturdy stems are suitable for cut flower arrangements.
Planting Your Felida Solar Flare Dahlia
Site Selection
Plant Felida Solar Flare dahlia tubers after the last spring frost, when soil temperatures consistently reach at least 60°F (15°C). For healthy growth, these dahlias thrive in full sun, requiring 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun is beneficial, and afternoon shade can prevent scorching in hot climates.
Soil Preparation
Well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is essential. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve drainage.
Tuber Placement
Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep. Place the tuber horizontally with any visible “eyes” or growth buds facing upwards. Space multiple tubers 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) apart. Backfill the hole with soil. Avoid watering immediately after planting unless the soil is exceptionally dry, as overwatering before shoots emerge can lead to tuber rot.
Nurturing Your Felida Solar Flare Dahlia for Abundant Blooms
Once established, Felida Solar Flare dahlias require consistent moisture. Water deeply two to three times per week, aiming for 1 inch of water weekly, adjusting frequency based on climate and soil. Deep watering ensures moisture reaches the tuber’s root system, promoting prolific flowering. Avoid overhead watering when blooms are open, as this can cause bloom spot or bend stems. Fertilize with a high potash fertilizer every few weeks throughout the summer to support continuous blooming.
As Felida Solar Flare dahlias grow tall, support is necessary to prevent stems from breaking under bloom weight or strong winds. Insert sturdy stakes, such as wooden or metal poles, at planting time to avoid damaging tubers later. Tie stems to stakes every 12 inches (30 cm), ensuring ties are secure but loose enough for stem thickening. Regular deadheading, removing spent blooms, encourages more flowers. Monitor for common garden pests like slugs and aphids, taking preventative measures to maintain plant health.
Winter Care and Tuber Storage
In regions where the ground freezes, Felida Solar Flare dahlia tubers require lifting and indoor storage for winter dormancy. Begin this process after the first hard frost, once foliage has died back. Leaving tubers in the ground for one to two weeks after a hard frost can help them toughen before digging. Cut stems back to 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) from the soil level. Carefully dig around the tuber clump with a garden fork or shovel.
Once lifted, shake off excess soil or wash tubers. Allow cleaned tubers to dry for several days to a few weeks in a cool, dry location with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight. This curing process helps prevent rot during storage. Store dried tubers in a cool, dark, frost-free environment where temperatures remain between 40-45°F (4-7°C). Humidity levels around 75-90% are important to prevent shriveling or excessive moisture.
Suitable storage mediums include peat moss, vermiculite, or spruce shavings, which help regulate moisture. Place tubers so they are not touching, layering them within the chosen medium in breathable containers like cardboard boxes or crates. Check tubers periodically throughout the winter for signs of rot, mold, or dehydration. Remove affected tubers promptly and adjust storage conditions to maintain ideal temperature and humidity.