The ‘Palmares’ dahlia is a highly sought-after variety, celebrated for its unique beauty. This guide provides comprehensive information on planting, ongoing care, and overwintering ‘Palmares’ dahlia tubers for successful blooms.
Understanding the Palmares Dahlia
The ‘Palmares’ dahlia is recognized for its spherical, pompom or ball-shaped flowers. Each petal exhibits a delicate peach shade on the top surface, contrasting with a darker magenta pink on the underside. This bicolored characteristic creates a distinctive visual effect, especially towards the flower’s densely packed center.
These fully double blooms are typically around 3.5 inches in diameter. Standing at a mature height of approximately 26 inches, ‘Palmares’ is suitable for front borders or as a cut flower. Its unique coloration and form make it a desirable addition for gardeners.
Planting Palmares Dahlias for Success
Successful cultivation of ‘Palmares’ dahlias begins with planting healthy tubers. Choose a planting site that receives full sunlight, ideally six to eight hours daily, and has well-drained soil. Good drainage is important because while dahlias need consistent moisture, soggy conditions can lead to tuber rot.
Soil preparation is important, as dahlias thrive in rich, loamy soil with ample organic matter. The ideal soil pH for dahlias is slightly acidic, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0. Amending heavy clay soil with compost, aged manure, or peat moss improves drainage and aeration, while sandy soils benefit from compost to retain moisture.
Plant ‘Palmares’ dahlia tubers in spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures have warmed sufficiently, generally between mid-April and mid-May. Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep, placing the tuber horizontally with the growing eye facing upward. Space tubers 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth. After planting, avoid immediate watering unless the soil is exceptionally dry, as tubers are prone to rotting if overwatered before shoots emerge.
Ongoing Care for Palmares Dahlias
Consistent watering is important for ‘Palmares’ dahlias once they have sprouted and established themselves. After shoots appear, water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary, ensuring water reaches the deep roots of the tubers.
Dahlias are heavy feeders, benefiting from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer with a higher percentage of phosphorus and potassium, such as a 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 ratio, to encourage abundant blooms rather than excessive foliage growth. Begin fertilizing about 30 days after planting and continue every three to four weeks.
‘Palmares’ dahlias will require staking or support as they grow to prevent their hollow stems from breaking under the weight of their blooms or from wind. Install sturdy stakes, such as 4.5 to 6-foot wooden or metal stakes, near the tuber at planting time and tie the stems to them as the plant grows. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and maintain plant vigor. Watch for common dahlia pests like slugs and earwigs, and address any signs of powdery mildew or other fungal issues by ensuring good air circulation and appropriate watering practices.
Overwintering Palmares Dahlia Tubers
In climates where the ground freezes (USDA Zones 7 and lower), ‘Palmares’ dahlia tubers need to be lifted and stored indoors for winter. Wait until after the first hard frost causes foliage to blacken and die back, typically in late fall. This allows the plant to send energy back to the tubers for storage.
Cut the dahlia stalks back to a few inches above the ground, then carefully dig up the tubers with a garden fork, avoiding damage. Gently remove excess soil from the tubers, either by hand or by rinsing with water. After cleaning, allow the tubers to air dry for several days in a protected area with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures.
Once dry, store tubers in a cool, dark, and humid location where temperatures remain between 38 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius). An ideal relative humidity range is 75% to 85%. Pack the tubers in a medium such as peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings in well-ventilated containers like cardboard boxes or mesh bags. Check on the stored tubers periodically throughout the winter, removing any that show signs of rot or shriveling.