‘La Recoleta’ Dahlia is known for its dramatic presence in garden beds and floral arrangements. It is a popular choice for gardeners, with its rich color and distinct form drawing attention from midsummer until the first frost.
Understanding La Recoleta Dahlia
Dahlia ‘La Recoleta’ is a Formal Decorative dahlia with fully double, compact blooms. Its intensely dark, velvety red, often appearing nearly black, makes it one of the darkest dahlias available. The entire flower maintains this dark red-purple shade.
Blooms measure 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) in diameter. These flowers emerge on long, sturdy stems, making them ideal for cutting and arrangements. The mature plant reaches a height of 80 to 120 cm (31 to 47 inches).
Ideal Growing Conditions
‘La Recoleta’ Dahlias thrive in full sun, at least six hours daily. In hotter climates, partial afternoon shade can protect the blooms. Proper soil conditions are also important.
These dahlias prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.0). Consistent moisture is beneficial, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to tuber rot.
Planting and Cultivation
Plant ‘La Recoleta’ Dahlia tubers after all danger of spring frost has passed, when soil temperature reaches approximately 15°C (60°F). Before planting, prepare the site by incorporating a 2 to 3-inch layer of compost or organic matter into the soil. This enriches the soil and improves drainage.
Dig a hole 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) deep. Place the tuber horizontally with the “eye” or cut end facing upwards, then cover with 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3 inches) of soil. Install a sturdy stake (5-6 feet tall) at planting for support. Avoid immediate watering unless the soil is exceptionally dry, as tubers can rot before sprouting.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once ‘La Recoleta’ Dahlia sprouts emerge, within three to ten weeks, consistent watering is important. Dahlias require deep watering two to three times a week, ensuring moisture penetrates at least 20 cm (8 inches) into the soil. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation are recommended to deliver water directly to the roots and avoid wetting foliage, which helps prevent disease.
Fertilization should begin 30 days after planting, using a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10 blend) monthly throughout the growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they promote leafy growth over blooms.
Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms until frost. Tie maturing stems to the pre-installed stake every 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) to prevent breakage. Monitor plants for pests like aphids or powdery mildew, and adjust care as needed.
Overwintering La Recoleta Dahlias
In colder climates (zones below USDA Zone 8), ‘La Recoleta’ Dahlia tubers are not hardy and must be dug up and stored indoors before the first hard frost. After foliage is blackened by a light frost, cut stalks back to 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) from the ground. Carefully dig up the tuber clumps without damage.
After digging, gently remove excess soil and air dry tubers in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight for 1-3 days. This curing process helps prevent rot. Store cleaned, cured tubers in a cool, dark, dry location (4°C-10°C / 38°F-50°F) with 75-85% humidity. Good storage mediums include vermiculite, peat moss, or sand in cardboard boxes or plastic crates, ensuring tubers do not touch. Regularly check tubers for shriveling or rot, adjusting humidity or removing affected tubers as necessary.