Dahlias are versatile plants, offering a broad spectrum of bloom shapes, sizes, and hues that contribute to summer and autumn landscapes. Among many varieties, the ‘Pink Suffusion’ dahlia stands out for its unique and appealing coloration. Its charm lies in a blend of shades that create a soft, yet striking, visual impact.
Discovering the ‘Pink Suffusion’ Dahlia
The ‘Pink Suffusion’ dahlia features distinctive coloring, with soft pink petals and subtle golden undertones. Some blooms display bright pink and yellow flecks towards the center, creating a radiant effect. Classified as a formal decorative dahlia, its blooms measure around 4 inches in diameter (4 to 6 inches across). This variety is a sport of ‘Hillcrest Suffusion’, inheriting robust genetics. The plant grows upright, reaching 3 to 4 feet. Its sturdy stems support the blooms, making it excellent for garden displays and cut flower arrangements. ‘Pink Suffusion’ adds color to borders and large containers, blooming consistently from midsummer until frost. Flowers hold well as cut specimens, producing new blooms as old ones are harvested.
Cultivating ‘Pink Suffusion’ Dahlias
Proper site selection is key for ‘Pink Suffusion’ dahlias. These plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant blooms. In regions with intense summer heat, light afternoon shade can prevent stress. A sheltered spot protects plants from strong winds, which can damage stems and blooms.
Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is preferred for ‘Pink Suffusion’ dahlias. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and incorporate compost or granular fertilizer. Plant tubers after the last spring frost, when soil temperature reaches 15°C (60°F). Place tubers horizontally with the growing eye facing upwards, 3 to 6 inches deep, spaced 12 to 18 inches apart. For an earlier start, tubers can be potted indoors four to six weeks before the last frost.
Proper watering is important for dahlia development. After planting, water tubers once, then refrain until first green sprouts emerge. Overwatering can lead to tuber rot. Once sprouted, provide deep watering one to two times per week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Water at the base to keep foliage dry, preventing fungal diseases.
Regular fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Apply water-soluble fertilizer every three to four weeks until September. Use nitrogen-rich fertilizer in early growth, transitioning to a phosphate-potassium blend as flower buds form. Cease fertilization once flower buds show color, as continued feeding can negatively impact tuber development for overwintering.
‘Pink Suffusion’ dahlias benefit from staking or other support systems due to their height. Install support structures early, when plants are small, to prevent damage as they grow and blooms become heavier.
Pinching encourages bushier growth. When the plant reaches 12 inches tall, pinch off the top of the main stem for bushier growth and more flowers. This removes the central growth point just above the third or fourth set of leaves.
Regularly deadhead spent flowers to direct the plant’s energy into producing new buds, promoting continuous blooming. Trim spent blooms just above a leaf or side shoot.
Dahlias can encounter pests (slugs, earwigs, aphids) or diseases (powdery mildew). Good air circulation and proper watering mitigate disease risk.
Overwintering and Storing ‘Pink Suffusion’ Tubers
In colder climates, ‘Pink Suffusion’ dahlia tubers are not winter-hardy and must be lifted and stored indoors. Dig tubers after the first hard frost causes foliage to blacken, typically in late autumn. This signals dormancy, channeling energy back into the tubers.
Carefully lift the entire tuber clump from the soil, avoiding damage. Cut the main stem back to 2 to 4 inches above the clump. Shake off excess soil or lightly rinse tubers. After digging, allow tubers to cure or dry for several days in a frost-free location away from direct sunlight. This curing helps toughen the skin and prevent rot during storage.
Store tubers in a cool, dark, well-ventilated environment. Maintain temperatures between 4.4°C and 10°C (40°F and 50°F); freezing temperatures destroy tubers, and warm conditions cause rot or premature sprouting. 80-90% humidity prevents shriveling. Store tubers in mediums like peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings to regulate moisture. Place tubers in ventilated containers (cardboard boxes, plastic bins with holes, or paper bags) for good air circulation.
Periodically inspect stored tubers throughout winter. This detects rot or excessive shriveling early. Remove mushy tubers to prevent spread, and increase ventilation. If shriveled, a light misting or damp storage medium can rehydrate them. Consistent monitoring ensures tubers remain viable until spring.