The ‘Jowey Veronique’ dahlia is a visually striking flower, cherished for beauty. Its captivating blooms enhance garden aesthetics and are popular in floral arrangements. This dahlia offers distinct charm, making it a rewarding choice.
Jowey Veronique Dahlia Characteristics
The ‘Jowey Veronique’ dahlia blooms feature velvety royal purple or dark pink hues. Their 4-inch, formal decorative style notably enhances gardens or floral displays.
Planting and Site Selection
For ‘Jowey Veronique’ dahlias, site selection and soil preparation are essential. They need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily and wind protection. They prefer rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Amend soil with compost. Loosen soil to 12 inches. Dig a 4-6 inch hole; place tuber horizontally with “eyes” up.
Cover with 2-3 inches of soil. Do not water immediately; wait for green shoots to emerge. Space tubers 12-18 inches apart.
Ongoing Care for Thriving Blooms
Once sprouts appear, deep watering is essential. Water 1-2 inches per week. In hot, dry weather, more frequent watering is needed, but avoid overhead watering.
Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting, then monthly; excess nitrogen causes lush foliage, fewer flowers. Staking supports large dahlia blooms; place stakes near tubers at planting, tying stems every 12-18 inches. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Pinch the central shoot at 12-16 inches for a bushier plant.
Pest and Disease Management
Dahlias can face pests and diseases. Aphids cluster on new growth; manage with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hosing. Slugs and snails feed on young dahlia leaves; deter them with barriers or traps.
Control spider mites by hosing plants or applying miticides/horticultural oils. Powdery mildew is a white fungal growth on leaves. Improve air circulation, avoid late overhead watering, and remove affected leaves. Good garden hygiene minimizes issues.
Winter Storage and Overwintering
In colder climates, ‘Jowey Veronique’ dahlia tubers need winter storage. After first frost browns foliage, wait 1-2 weeks before digging. Cut stalks to 4 inches and gently loosen soil around tuber clump.
Lift tuber clumps and dry for 1-3 days in a cool, dark place. Once dry, cut stalks back to 1 inch. Store tubers in a cool, dark, frost-free place with peat moss or vermiculite. Check monthly for rot or shriveling.
Harvesting and Using Blooms
Harvest ‘Jowey Veronique’ dahlia blooms to maximize vase life. Cut flowers in early morning or late evening. Select blooms that are nearly or fully open.
Cut stems with sharp, clean clippers. Remove foliage below waterline. Place cut stems into fresh water. Dahlias last 3-7 days in a vase. Change water and re-cut stems for freshness.