The Maroon Fox Dahlia, with its striking deep red to velvety maroon blooms, adds luxury to any garden. This popular dahlia cultivar offers a vibrant display, blooming consistently from midsummer through autumn.
Understanding Maroon Fox Dahlias
The ‘Maroon Fox’ dahlia features miniature pompom blooms, typically 8 cm (3 inches) across. These dome-shaped flowers display a velvety deep maroon shade, which can also include deep purples, magentas, and crimson tones.
This variety is strongly branching, producing abundant, weather-resistant blooms on sturdy stems. Maroon Fox Dahlias typically reach 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) tall with a spread of about 50 cm (20 inches). Their manageable size makes them excellent for borders, patio containers, or as cut flowers.
Planting and Growing Maroon Fox Dahlias
Maroon Fox Dahlias thrive in full sun, requiring at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and bloom production. While full sun is preferred in northern regions, afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter southern climates.
Well-drained soil is important, as dahlias prefer it to prevent tuber rot. An ideal soil pH ranges from 6.5 to 7.0. Incorporate well-rotted manure or compost into the soil before planting to improve drainage and enrich nutrient content. Plant tubers outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches 60°F (15.5°C).
When planting, dig a hole 4-6 inches deep. Place the tuber with the “eyes” or cut stem end facing upwards, then cover it gently with 2-3 inches of soil. Avoid watering immediately after planting unless the soil is exceptionally dry, as this can lead to rot. Wait until new growth appears above ground before watering regularly. Space tubers 12-18 inches apart for adequate room and air circulation.
Ongoing Care for Maroon Fox Dahlias
Watering
Consistent watering is important for Maroon Fox Dahlias once established. After initial growth appears, deep watering two to three times a week is generally sufficient, increasing frequency during hot, dry periods. Container-grown dahlias often require more frequent watering. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which helps prevent disease.
Fertilization
Dahlias are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. A low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as 5-10-10 or 2-4-4, is recommended. Apply fertilizer about 30 days after planting, then monthly, or every 2-3 weeks for container plants. Over-fertilizing, especially with high nitrogen, can result in lush foliage but fewer blooms and weaker tubers.
Staking
Staking is often necessary for taller dahlia varieties like Maroon Fox to prevent brittle stems from breaking under bloom weight or strong winds. Install stakes at planting time, about 3 inches from the tuber, to avoid damaging the root system later. As the plant grows, tie main stems loosely to the stake every 12 inches for support without restricting growth.
Deadheading
Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, encourages continuous blooming. This practice redirects the plant’s energy from seed production into forming new buds, extending the flowering period. Use sharp secateurs or scissors to cut the spent flower stem back to the nearest set of leaves. Regular deadheading also improves the plant’s appearance and reduces hiding spots for pests.
Pinching and Pruning
Pinching back the central shoot when the plant has 3-5 sets of leaves encourages lateral branching, creating a bushier plant with more blooms. This early season technique promotes multiple, slimmer stems. Pruning for air circulation can also be beneficial, especially in humid conditions, by removing dense foliage that restricts airflow.
Winter Care and Tuber Storage
In regions where ground freezes (USDA Zones 7 and below), Maroon Fox Dahlia tubers must be dug up and stored indoors for winter. Begin preparation after the first hard frost, when the foliage has turned brown or black, signaling the plant to send energy back to the tubers. Cut the stems back to 4-6 inches above the ground, leaving a handle for lifting.
Carefully dig around the tuber clump, at least 6-12 inches away from the stem, using a pitchfork to avoid damage. Gently loosen the soil and lift the entire clump, taking care not to break the brittle tubers. After lifting, gently shake off excess dirt. Allow the tubers to air dry in a cool, sheltered location for 1-2 days, ensuring they are protected from freezing temperatures.
Inspect each tuber for damage, disease, or rot, trimming away any compromised sections with a sharp, sanitized knife. If dividing clumps, ensure each section has at least one “eye” or dormant bud.
Store tubers in a cool, dark, and slightly humid place, ideally 40-50°F (4-10°C) and 75-85% humidity. Use storage mediums like dampened peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings to prevent desiccation. Place tubers in ventilated containers like cardboard boxes or crates to ensure air circulation and prevent rot. Check stored tubers monthly, removing any showing signs of rot.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Pests
Maroon Fox Dahlias can face various pests. Aphids cluster on new growth, causing yellowing and stunted development; control with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or ladybugs. Slugs and snails feed on young leaves, leaving irregular holes; deter them with copper barriers, diatomaceous earth, or beer traps. Earwigs chew on leaves and buds; reduce their presence by keeping the garden tidy and setting traps.
Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions, causing stippling and discoloration on leaves with fine webbing. Manage them with regular hosing or insecticidal soaps. Thrips can deform flowers and discolor leaves, potentially transmitting viruses; control with predatory mites or sticky traps.
Diseases and Other Issues
Common diseases include powdery mildew, appearing as white growth on leaves. Manage it with proper air circulation, watering at the base, and baking soda solution. Tuber rot is often caused by overly wet conditions; ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Lack of blooms or stunted growth can stem from insufficient sunlight, over-fertilization (especially with nitrogen), or pest damage. Addressing these environmental factors can resolve growth problems.