The ‘Mingus Joshua’ dahlia is a highly sought-after variety, celebrated for its vibrant presence and capacity to enhance any garden space. Its appealing blooms make it a popular choice for gardeners aiming to infuse their landscapes with striking color and form.
Distinctive Features of Mingus Joshua Dahlia
The ‘Mingus Joshua’ dahlia showcases a fimbriated bloom, meaning its petals are finely split at the tips, creating a distinctive fringed appearance. These captivating flowers display a dynamic blend of sunshine yellow and orange hues, sometimes appearing as peachy orange, apricot, or soft lemon.
This variety produces medium to large flowers, typically 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) in diameter. The plant reaches a mature height of 60 to 110 cm (2 to 3.6 feet) with a spread of 50 to 76 cm (1.6 to 2.5 feet). ‘Mingus Joshua’ dahlias typically bloom from July through September or October, providing prolonged color.
Cultivating Mingus Joshua Dahlia
Site and Soil Preparation
Successful cultivation of ‘Mingus Joshua’ dahlias begins with selecting an appropriate site. These plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. Incorporating a 2-3 inch layer of compost into the planting area before planting can significantly improve soil structure and fertility.
Planting Tubers
Dahlia tubers should be planted outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 15.5°C (60°F). Dig a hole 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8 inches) deep, wide enough to accommodate the tuber. Place the tuber with the “eye” or sprout facing upwards, then cover it gently with a few inches of soil. Space individual tubers 45 to 50 cm (18 to 20 inches) apart.
Watering Needs
After planting, avoid watering tubers immediately. Excess moisture can lead to tuber rot before sprouting. Once green sprouts emerge, begin a regular watering schedule. Provide a weekly soak of 1-2 inches of water if natural rainfall is insufficient, and in hot summer conditions, bi-weekly watering may be necessary.
Fertilizing for Abundant Blooms
Dahlias are heavy feeders, benefiting from consistent fertilization to support vigorous growth and prolific flowering. Use a fertilizer low in nitrogen but higher in phosphorus and potassium, often called “bloom food.” Suitable NPK ratios include 2-4-4, 3-9-4, or 5-10-10. Begin fertilizing about 30 days after planting and continue every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season.
Staking and Support
Given their mature height and large, heavy blooms, ‘Mingus Joshua’ dahlias require staking to prevent their brittle, hollow stems from breaking. Install strong stakes, such as wood or metal, at planting time or shortly after tubers sprout to avoid damaging the developing root system. For taller varieties, stakes 1.8 meters (6 feet) or more are suitable. As the plant grows, tie stems loosely to the stake every 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) without constricting growth.
Pest and Disease Management
Dahlias are susceptible to common garden pests such as slugs, snails, aphids, earwigs, and spider mites. Inspect plants regularly for signs of infestation. Organic solutions include handpicking larger pests, using barriers like copper tape, or applying insecticidal soaps and neem oil. Good air circulation, proper spacing, and removing plant debris help prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis blight.
Winter Care for Mingus Joshua Dahlia Tubers
In colder climates (USDA Zones 3-7) where winter temperatures fall below freezing, ‘Mingus Joshua’ dahlia tubers must be dug up and stored indoors to protect them from frost. After the first autumn frost blackens the foliage, cut stalks back to a few inches above ground. Wait about 10 days, then carefully dig up the tuber clumps, taking care not to damage them.
Gently remove excess soil, rinsing if necessary. Allow tubers to air dry and cure for a few days to a week in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight until the skin is firm. Once cured, store tubers in a dark, frost-free location between 4°C and 10°C (40°F and 50°F). They can be stored in ventilated cardboard boxes, paper bags, or plastic tubs, often packed in peat moss, vermiculite, or dry potting compost to prevent shriveling. Check tubers periodically throughout winter for signs of rot or shriveling.