The Myrthe Dahlia is a captivating addition to any garden, celebrated for its vibrant blooms and ability to provide continuous color throughout the growing season. This popular garden plant offers a striking visual appeal that enhances borders, containers, and cutting gardens alike. Its relatively straightforward care makes it a rewarding choice for gardeners seeking both beauty and productivity.
Unique Characteristics of Myrthe Dahlia
The Myrthe Dahlia is known for its distinctive warm-toned flowers, featuring a unique blend of orange, peach, and yellow hues. Its tangerine petals are often edged with golden-yellow, creating a radiant effect. These beautiful blooms measure around 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12 cm) in diameter. The plant typically grows to 70 cm to 1 meter (2.3 to 3.3 feet) tall, though some varieties can reach 1.5 meters (5 feet). Its upright habit and continuous flowering from mid-summer until the first frost make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements or as a focal point in garden displays.
Planting and Site Selection for Myrthe Dahlia
Myrthe Dahlia cultivation requires careful site selection and soil preparation. It thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant blooms. While partial shade is tolerated, full sun promotes the best flowering. The soil should be fertile, well-draining, and rich in organic matter to prevent tuber rot, which can occur in waterlogged conditions. Amending the planting area with compost or well-rotted manure before planting can significantly improve soil structure and fertility.
Planting should occur in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 55-60°F (13-15°C). Dig a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) deep hole, placing the tuber horizontally with the “eye” or growing point facing upwards. For optimal growth, space tubers 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) apart. After planting, cover the tuber with a few inches of soil, and avoid heavy watering until green shoots emerge, as too much moisture can lead to rot.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent watering is important for Myrthe Dahlia during its active growing period, but avoid overwatering, especially before sprouts appear. Once the plants are established and about 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall, they benefit from watering once or twice a week, particularly during dry spells. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are effective methods for delivering moisture directly to the root zone while minimizing the risk of foliar diseases.
Fertilizing is important for healthy growth and prolific blooming. Dahlias are considered heavy feeders, but they require a low-nitrogen fertilizer with a higher percentage of phosphorus and potassium. A balanced formulation such as 5-10-10 or similar is suitable, applied every 3 to 4 weeks starting about 30 days after planting and continuing through the growing season. For plants in containers, more frequent fertilization, every 2-3 weeks, may be necessary due to nutrient leaching.
As Myrthe Dahlia grows, its tall stems and large blooms can become top-heavy, making support necessary to prevent bending or breakage. Staking each plant individually with sturdy bamboo canes or metal stakes is effective, placing them about 3 inches (7.5 cm) from the main stem at planting time. As the plant matures, tie the stems to the stakes using soft ties or twine at regular intervals, typically every 12 inches (30 cm). Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms by redirecting energy away from seed production. Identify spent blooms by their pointed shape and softer feel compared to firm, round new buds.
Preparing Myrthe Dahlia for Winter
In colder climates, where temperatures drop below freezing, Myrthe Dahlia tubers are not winter-hardy and must be lifted from the ground to protect them. Lift tubers about one week after the first hard frost, when foliage blackens. Begin by cutting the stems back to about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) above the ground. Carefully dig around the plant, about 12 inches (30 cm) from the stem, to avoid damaging the tubers, gently lifting the entire clump.
After lifting, gently remove soil from the tubers; rinse them thoroughly, taking care not to break the delicate necks connecting them to the main crown. Allow cleaned tubers to air dry for several days in a cool, well-ventilated area until the skin toughens, preventing rot during storage. Store dried tubers in a cool, dark, frost-free location (40-50°F / 4-10°C). Place them in cardboard boxes or crates, nestled in peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust, to maintain humidity and prevent dehydration. In warmer climates (USDA Zones 8 and above), tubers can remain in the ground with adequate mulching for winter protection.