Dahlias are a favored choice for their vibrant color and unique forms. The ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlia is a highly sought-after variety, captivating with its distinct characteristics. Its appeal lies in its striking appearance and prolonged display of blooms throughout the growing season, making it a rewarding addition to any garden.
What Makes Hy Trio Dahlia Unique
The ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlia is a captivating cactus dahlia, distinguished by its large, spiky, and often semi-cactus blooms. Each flower features a unique color combination of dark raspberry and lilac-pink flecks and stripes on creamy-white petals. No two blossoms are exactly alike. These impressive flowers measure 5 to 6 inches across, and the plant can reach 40 to 48 inches (100-120 cm) in height. ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlias bloom steadily from midsummer, typically July, until the first hard frost, often into September or November.
Planting Hy Trio Dahlia
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Plant ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlia tubers in spring, after the last frost and when soil temperature consistently reaches 60°F (15°C). Choose a site with full sun, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, and some shelter from strong winds. Prepare well-draining, loose, and fertile soil by incorporating organic matter like compost or aged manure.
Tuber Placement and Initial Care
Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep and place the tuber horizontally, with the growing eye facing upwards. Cover with a few inches of soil, spacing tubers 12 to 18 inches apart for proper air circulation. Avoid watering immediately after planting unless the soil is exceptionally dry, as excess moisture can cause tuber rot. Wait until green shoots emerge before regular watering.
Caring for Hy Trio Dahlia During Growth
Watering and Fertilization
Once ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlia plants are established, consistent care ensures abundant blooms. Water regularly, typically one to two times per week, ensuring deep soil saturation. In hotter climates or during peak summer, increase watering to two to three times per week, or daily for container plants.
Fertilize with a low-nitrogen formula, higher in phosphorus and potassium. Apply every three to four weeks for ground plants, or every two to three weeks for container plants. Cease fertilization by late August if overwintering tubers.
Support and Deadheading
Given their height, ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlias require staking or other support systems to prevent stems from bending or breaking. Install stakes at planting time to avoid disturbing roots later. As the plant grows, use soft ties to secure stems to supports. Regular deadheading, removing spent flowers, encourages more blooms by redirecting energy from seed production.
Pest and Disease Management
Monitor plants for common pests like slugs, aphids, or spider mites, and diseases such as powdery mildew or botrytis. Maintaining good air circulation, possibly by removing lower leaves, can help mitigate fungal issues.
Preparing Hy Trio Dahlia for Winter
Digging and Curing Tubers
In regions with freezing temperatures, prepare ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlia tubers for winter storage after the first hard frost, when foliage has died back. Cut stems to 4 to 6 inches from the ground. Dig around the dahlia clump with a garden fork, avoiding tuber damage.
Lift the clump, shake off loose dirt, and rinse remaining soil. Allow tubers to dry or “cure” for several days to a week in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This toughens the skin and prevents rot during storage.
Storing Tubers
For storage, place cleaned and dried tubers in containers like milk crates, plastic bins, or cardboard boxes. Pack them in peat moss, vermiculite, or dry compost, ensuring space between each tuber for air circulation. Store containers in a cool, dark, frost-free location, ideally 40-50°F (4-10°C) with moderate humidity. Check tubers periodically throughout winter for shriveling or rot.
Multiplying Hy Trio Dahlia
Timing and Identifying Eyes
Multiply ‘Hy Trio’ Dahlias by dividing their tubers. The ideal time for division is late fall after digging for winter storage, or more commonly, early spring before replanting. Each tuber section must have at least one viable “eye” or growth point, where new shoots emerge. These eyes are located near the crown, where the tuber connects to the old stem. In spring, eyes may be more visible, sometimes showing small sprouts.
Division Process
To divide, wash any remaining soil from the tuber clump. Using a sharp, clean knife or pruners, separate the tubers, ensuring each piece retains a portion of the crown with at least one eye. Disinfect cutting tools between divisions to prevent disease spread.