The ‘Jane Cowl’ dahlia is a highly sought-after garden plant, cherished for its spectacular blooms and enduring appeal. It has remained a consistently popular choice among gardeners since its introduction, often being one of the most requested heirloom dahlia varieties. Its large, captivating flowers can transform a garden space, making it a timeless classic.
Unveiling the Jane Cowl Dahlia
The ‘Jane Cowl’ dahlia is an informal decorative type, known for its lush, full appearance with broad, slightly curled or twisted petals. These impressive blooms typically measure 8 to 10 inches across, categorizing them as a “dinner plate” dahlia. The plant itself can reach a substantial height of 5 to 6 feet or more, creating a dramatic vertical element in the garden.
The coloration of ‘Jane Cowl’ is distinctive, featuring a rich blend of golden apricot, deep peach, and bronze tones, often appearing dusted with gold. The blooms are held erect on sturdy stems. This dahlia cultivar, bred by Downs Dahlia Farms, debuted in 1927 and was named after the famous Broadway actress Jane Cowl. It has won numerous awards, including the American Dahlia Society’s Gold Medal, solidifying its status as a garden favorite.
Cultivating Jane Cowl Dahlias
Plant ‘Jane Cowl’ dahlia tubers after all danger of frost has passed in spring, similar to when tomatoes are planted. Plant tubers 4 to 6 inches deep, ensuring the ‘eye’ or growing point faces upwards. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for ample air circulation and growth.
‘Jane Cowl’ dahlias thrive in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to produce abundant blooms. While they can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates, optimal flowering occurs with more light. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or plant in raised beds to significantly improve drainage.
Consistent moisture is important throughout the growing season, particularly during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, especially immediately after planting, as tubers can rot in soggy conditions. Once established, deep watering two to three times a week is generally sufficient, depending on local weather conditions. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Instead, use a balanced fertilizer or one formulated for tomatoes or roses, applying it lightly monthly until early fall.
Winterizing and Enjoying Your Blooms
When the first hard frost arrives and foliage blackens, prepare ‘Jane Cowl’ dahlia tubers for winter storage. This indicates the plant has entered dormancy. Cut stems back to 4-6 inches above the ground.
Carefully dig up the tubers, taking care not to damage them, and gently shake off excess soil. Cure tubers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area for several days to allow their skins to toughen. After curing, store the tubers in a cool, dark place, ideally between 40-50°F (4-10°C), in materials like peat moss, wood shavings, or vermiculite to prevent drying or rotting.
‘Jane Cowl’ dahlias typically bloom from mid-summer until the first frost, offering a continuous display of large, striking flowers. To encourage more blooms and maintain plant vigor, regularly deadhead spent flowers by cutting the stem back to a leaf node or main branch. These dahlias also make exceptional cut flowers for arrangements, and cutting them for indoor display promotes more blooms.