Sunburst Dahlias offer a captivating and vibrant addition to any garden space. Their striking appearance and dynamic colors bring a unique joy to gardeners seeking to enhance their landscape. These remarkable plants transform garden beds into displays of rich color and texture.
Discovering Sunburst Dahlias
Sunburst Dahlias are celebrated for their distinctive coloration, often showcasing a radiant blend of yellow, orange, and red hues that seemingly burst from the center of each bloom. These varieties typically present large flower forms, such as the impressive dinnerplate or informal decorative types, with individual blooms often reaching 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) across. Their vibrant, multi-toned petals create a dramatic visual impact, making them popular choices for borders and cut flower arrangements. They provide continuous, showy blooms from mid-summer until the first hard frost. Sunburst Dahlias are classified as tuberous perennials, meaning they grow from underground storage organs and can return each year in suitable climates or with proper overwintering care.
Planting Sunburst Dahlias Successfully
Correct planting of Sunburst Dahlia tubers establishes the foundation for vibrant blooms. Plant after the last spring frost, when soil temperatures consistently reach 60°F (15°C). Select a site with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth and abundant flowering. Ensure well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Good drainage prevents tuber rot.
Before planting, loosen the soil to at least 12 inches deep, removing debris to allow tubers to expand. Place tubers 4 to 6 inches deep with the “eye” (sprout) facing upwards. Space tubers 18 to 24 inches apart for good air circulation and to minimize resource competition as plants mature. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. Avoid excessive watering immediately after, as this can lead to tuber rot before growth begins.
Essential Care for Sunburst Dahlias
Consistent care ensures spectacular blooms. They require full sun exposure (at least six to eight hours daily) to thrive. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry periods and peak flowering. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot and ensure adequate moisture.
Good soil health and drainage support overall vigor. Fertilize with a low-nitrogen formula (e.g., 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 NPK blend), as excessive nitrogen promotes leafy growth over blooms. Apply this fertilizer every three to four weeks, starting about 30 days after planting and continuing until late summer.
Taller varieties benefit from staking or caging, as stems can be brittle and prone to breaking under large blooms or strong winds. Provide support when plants reach 12 to 18 inches. Individual stakes, driven before planting, are effective for single plants. The “corral method” using multiple stakes and twine can support rows.
Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) encourages continuous blooms by redirecting energy from seed production to new flower buds. This extends the flowering season and maintains aesthetic appeal.
Preparing Sunburst Dahlias for Winter
In climates with freezing winter temperatures, prepare Sunburst Dahlias for winter by digging up and storing tubers. Begin this process after the first hard frost blackens foliage, signaling dormancy. Carefully dig around the plant, lifting the tuber clump while minimizing damage. After digging, gently remove excess soil and air dry tubers in a cool, sheltered location for a few days until the skin toughens.
Once dried, store tubers in a cool, dark, well-ventilated space (40-50°F / 4-10°C). Nestle them in peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings to prevent desiccation. Periodically check stored tubers for shriveling or rot, adjusting conditions if necessary. This preparation ensures tubers remain viable for replanting the following spring, allowing enjoyment for many seasons.