The ‘Star Elite’ Dahlia is a popular choice for gardeners, known for its striking blooms. Its popularity stems from reliable performance and visual impact in flower beds and containers. Cultivating this dahlia provides vibrant color throughout the growing season.
Star Elite Dahlia Characteristics
The ‘Star Elite’ Dahlia is a decorative dahlia, distinguished by broad, flat petals that create a full, rounded bloom. Its flowers typically reach 6 to 8 inches in diameter. The color pattern features creamy white petals that transition to purple or magenta at the tips, creating a two-tone effect. This dahlia grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet, forming an upright, bushy plant.
Planting Your Star Elite Dahlia
Plant ‘Star Elite’ Dahlia tubers after the last spring frost, when soil temperatures have warmed to at least 60°F (15°C). These dahlias thrive in full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, as soggy conditions can lead to tuber rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is suitable.
When planting, dig a hole about 6 inches deep and lay the tuber horizontally with the “eye” (a small bump or sprout) facing upwards. Cover the tuber with 2 to 3 inches of soil initially, adding more as the plant grows. Space tubers 18 to 24 inches apart for adequate air circulation and development. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Ongoing Care for Star Elite Dahlia
Water ‘Star Elite’ Dahlias consistently, especially during dry periods, as they prefer evenly moist soil. Deep watering two to three times a week, rather than shallow watering, encourages deeper root growth. Fertilize once the plant reaches 8 inches in height, using a balanced fertilizer with lower nitrogen (e.g., 5-10-10 or 10-20-20) every three to four weeks. High nitrogen promotes foliage over flowers.
As plants mature and blooms develop, staking is necessary to support heavy flower heads and prevent stems from breaking. Insert sturdy stakes (e.g., bamboo or metal) near the tuber at planting or shortly after sprouts emerge, to avoid damaging roots. Regularly remove spent blooms, a practice known as deadheading, which encourages more flowers throughout the season rather than seed production. Inspect plants for common pests like aphids or spider mites, and address infestations promptly with an appropriate horticultural spray.
Overwintering Star Elite Dahlia Tubers
In regions with freezing winter temperatures, ‘Star Elite’ Dahlia tubers are not hardy and must be dug up for storage. Wait until after the first hard frost has blackened the foliage, which signals dormancy. Carefully dig around the plant, lifting the tuber clump intact. Gently remove excess soil and air dry tubers in a cool, sheltered location for a few days to cure.
Once cured, store tubers in a cool, dark, dry place between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C). Pack them in a breathable medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings, ensuring good air circulation to prevent rot. Periodically check stored tubers throughout winter for firmness and mold, discarding any that show signs of decay to prevent spread.