The ‘Table Dancer’ dahlia is a popular and visually appealing flower, known for its distinct blooms. Its unique characteristics and relatively straightforward care make it a favored choice for gardeners. Understanding its specific needs, from planting to overwintering, helps ensure abundant flowering.
Table Dancer Dahlia Characteristics
The ‘Table Dancer’ dahlia is a cactus or fimbriata dahlia, featuring fully double flowers with pointed petals that often recurve or are split at the ends, creating a tubular or frilly appearance. These striking blooms measure 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) across. The petals display a vivid purple hue, often with distinctive pink or white tips, giving them a starburst or ruffled effect. This dahlia generally reaches 30 to 40 inches (75-100 cm) tall and spreads about 18 inches (45 cm) wide. It is well-suited for sunny borders or large patio containers and is also excellent as a cut flower.
Planting and Cultivation
Plant ‘Table Dancer’ dahlias after the last spring frost, when soil temperatures have warmed sufficiently. Planting too early in cold, damp soil can lead to tuber rot.
Dahlias thrive in full sun, ideally at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While they tolerate some partial shade, full sun promotes the best blooming. The soil should be fertile, well-draining, and rich in organic matter, with a neutral pH. Amending the planting area with compost or well-rotted manure improves soil structure and provides essential nutrients.
Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) deep for each tuber. Place the tuber horizontally on its side with the “eye” or growing point facing upwards, then cover with a few inches of soil. Space tubers 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm) apart for ample growth and air circulation. After planting, avoid immediate heavy watering. Wait until sprouts appear above the soil to begin consistent watering, as too much moisture can cause tubers to rot before they establish.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, consistent watering is important, especially in hot and dry climates. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, delivered deeply to the roots. Container dahlias may require daily watering during warm weather. Avoid light, frequent watering, which does not penetrate deep enough.
Regular fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Apply a high-potash fertilizer every few weeks during the summer. Over-fertilization with too much nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
As plants grow, staking is often necessary to support their long stems and heavy blooms, preventing breakage from wind or rain. Place sturdy stakes, such as hardwood or metal, near the tubers at planting time to avoid damage. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, encourages more blooms throughout the season. Cut stems just above a set of leaves to promote new growth and branching. Watch for common pests like thrips or earwigs if buds fail to open. Good air circulation, achieved through proper spacing, helps reduce the risk of fungal issues.
Overwintering Your Dahlias
In colder climates where soil freezes, dig up and store ‘Table Dancer’ dahlia tubers for winter survival. Begin after the first hard frost, which causes foliage to blacken. Allow tubers to remain in the ground for one to two weeks after frost to toughen their skin and cure.
Before digging, cut stems to 2 to 4 inches above the soil line. Carefully dig around the tuber clump using a pitchfork or shovel, starting at least a foot away from the main stem to avoid damage. Gently lift the clump and brush off excess soil. If washed, allow tubers to dry for 12 to 24 hours in a shaded area before storage, ensuring they do not completely dry out.
Tuber Storage
Store tubers in a cool, dark, and dry location where temperatures remain above freezing, ideally between 38-50°F (3-10°C), with a relative humidity of 75-85%.
- Acceptable storage mediums include peat moss, vermiculite, or dry sand, which help regulate moisture.
- Place tubers in cardboard boxes, paper bags, or plastic bins, ensuring good air circulation.
- Prevent tubers from touching each other to minimize rot spread.
- Regularly check stored tubers throughout the winter for any signs of rot or shriveling, adjusting humidity as needed.