The ‘Glorie van Noordwijk’ Dahlia is a popular choice for gardeners, offering a vibrant and impressive display. Its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care make it a rewarding addition to many garden styles. These beautiful flowers can transform a garden space with their abundant blooms and rich colors, providing visual interest throughout the summer and fall.
Characteristics of Glorie van Noordwijk Dahlias
The ‘Glorie van Noordwijk’ Dahlia is a decorative or semi-cactus type, known for its large, fully double blooms. These flowers typically measure 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) across, though some can reach up to 10 inches (25 cm). The petals are often soft-quilled or slightly wavy, displaying warm butterscotch or peachy-orange hues, with hints of deep yellow and velvety burgundy.
This upright, bushy herbaceous perennial grows 3 to 4 feet (90 cm to 1.1 meters) tall. Its sturdy, dark stems support the large blooms, making them suitable for cut flower arrangements. This dahlia flowers from mid-summer, usually July, until the first frost, providing a long season of color.
Planting Glorie van Noordwijk Dahlias
Successful planting of ‘Glorie van Noordwijk’ dahlias requires selecting the right location and soil. These plants thrive in full sun, ideally receiving 8 to 10 hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-drained, fertile, and loose sandy soil is preferred, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.0. Amending heavy clay soil with organic matter or peat moss can improve drainage.
Planting should occur in early to mid-spring, after the last frost, when soil temperatures are consistently above 5°C (41°F). Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) deep and place the tuber horizontally with any visible “eye” pointing upwards. For multiple tubers, space them 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation. Avoid immediate watering after planting if the soil is already moist, as unsprouted tubers are prone to rot in soggy conditions.
Ongoing Care for Glorie van Noordwijk Dahlias
Maintain consistent moisture for ‘Glorie van Noordwijk’ dahlias throughout the growing season, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Less water is needed in early growth stages, possibly once a day on sunny days. As the plant matures, water more frequently, preferably before or after sunrise or sunset.
Fertilize for robust growth and prolific blooming. Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer, often referred to as a “bloom food,” (e.g., 5-10-10) every 3 to 4 weeks, starting 30 days after planting. Use nitrogen-dominant fertilizers sparingly in the early vegetative stage, as excess nitrogen can hinder flowering.
Dahlias growing up to 4 feet tall often benefit from staking to support heavy blooms and prevent wind damage. Insert stakes at planting time to avoid root damage. Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms throughout summer and fall.
Pest and Disease Management
‘Glorie van Noordwijk’ dahlias can be susceptible to common garden pests and diseases. Proper cultural practices help minimize issues, especially ensuring good air circulation to mitigate problems from high temperatures and humidity. Regular inspection helps in early detection of pests like slugs, earwigs, or aphids.
Preventative measures include maintaining plant vigor through appropriate watering and fertilization. Removing dead leaves and flowers promptly can reduce potential breeding grounds for pests and diseases. If issues arise, organic pest management solutions or targeted treatments can be applied, following product instructions carefully. Increasing phosphorus and potassium fertilization can enhance the plant’s natural resistance to adverse conditions.
Overwintering Glorie van Noordwijk Dahlia Tubers
In regions with cold winters (USDA Hardiness Zones 3-7), ‘Glorie van Noordwijk’ dahlia tubers must be lifted and stored indoors to survive. The process begins after the first hard frost blackens the foliage, signaling the plant to send energy to its tubers. Allow tubers to remain in the ground for one to two weeks after this frost to cure and toughen, improving their storage viability.
Carefully dig up tubers, being mindful not to damage them. Cut stems back to 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) above the crown. Remove excess soil, then dry tubers for several days in a cool, dry location with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
Once dry, store tubers in a cool, dark, frost-free place, ideally 40-50°F (4-10°C) with 80-90% humidity. They can be placed in boxes or bins, covered with materials like peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings to prevent them from touching and to maintain moisture. Check periodically throughout winter for any signs of rot or excessive drying.