The ‘Nescio’ dahlia is a distinctive and popular choice for gardeners, celebrated for its diverse forms and vibrant colors. Its unique appeal lies in its striking appearance, making it a focal point in any garden setting. This dahlia brings both beauty and elegance, appealing to those seeking an eye-catching display.
Understanding ‘Nescio’ Dahlia
The ‘Nescio’ dahlia is characterized by its perfectly spherical, pompon-like blooms. These flowers typically span 5–7 cm in diameter and feature a striking deep red hue, formed by many tightly inrolled, curled petals. The plant itself reaches a mature height of 70–100 cm, with dark green foliage providing a beautiful contrast to the vivid red flowers. It is classified as a pompon-flowered dahlia, known for their globose, fully double flowerheads.
Cultivating ‘Nescio’ Dahlia
‘Nescio’ dahlias thrive in locations that receive full sun, which encourages plentiful blooms and robust development. While they can tolerate some partial shade, maximum flowering occurs with ample direct sunlight. The preferred soil type is fertile, well-drained, and moderately moist, ideally with a pH that is neutral to slightly acidic. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil can significantly improve fertility and drainage.
Consistent watering is important, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Over-saturation can harm the tubers, so good drainage is particularly important. During the growing season, applying a high-potash fertilizer every few weeks can promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. For taller plants like ‘Nescio’, providing support such as staking may be beneficial to prevent stems from bending or breaking. Regularly removing spent blooms, known as deadheading, encourages more flowers.
Planting and Overwintering ‘Nescio’ Dahlia
‘Nescio’ dahlia tubers should be planted in the spring after the danger of the last frost has completely passed and the soil has warmed to at least 10°C (50°F). Tubers are typically planted about 10–15 cm (4-6 inches) deep, with the eyes or growth points facing upwards. Adequate spacing is important, with plants positioned 40–60 cm (16-24 inches) apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation.
As ‘Nescio’ dahlias are not winter hardy, their tubers need to be lifted and stored before the first hard frost. After the foliage has been blackened by a light frost, carefully dig up the tubers, making sure not to damage them. Clean off any excess soil and allow the tubers to air dry for a few days in a cool, dry place to cure them. Once cured, store the tubers in a cool, dark, and dry environment, such as in peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust, to prevent rot and desiccation over the winter months.
Addressing Common ‘Nescio’ Dahlia Challenges
Gardeners may encounter common challenges when growing ‘Nescio’ dahlias. Pests such as aphids, slugs, and earwigs can affect the plants. Aphids can be managed with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap, while slugs and earwigs may require traps or organic baits. Keeping the garden area clean helps deter pests.
Diseases like powdery mildew or various viral issues can occur. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and can be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation around plants and, if necessary, applying a fungicide. Viral diseases often cause distorted growth or discolored foliage; infected plants should be removed to prevent spread. Proper sanitation of tools also helps prevent disease transmission.
A lack of blooms often results from insufficient sunlight, over-fertilization with nitrogen, or plant stress. Ensuring the dahlia receives full sun and using a balanced fertilizer or one higher in phosphorus and potassium can encourage more flowers. Leggy growth, where stems become long and sparse, can be addressed by pinching out the growing tips when the plant is young. This encourages the plant to branch out, leading to a bushier, more compact form with increased bloom potential.