Dahlias are popular garden plants known for their diverse, vibrant blooms. ‘Wanda’s Aurora’ stands out as a striking choice, celebrated for its unique color transitions and impressive size. This distinctive dahlia brings a captivating display to any garden.
Characteristics of Wanda’s Aurora Dahlia
‘Wanda’s Aurora’ is a Formal Decorative dahlia, with symmetrical blooms and flat, evenly spaced petals. These impressive flowers typically reach 8 to 10 inches in diameter, classifying them as “dinnerplate” dahlias. The plant usually grows to about 4 feet tall, making it a prominent garden feature.
The coloration of ‘Wanda’s Aurora’ is captivating, blending salmon-pink and yellow hues. Outer petals often display a soft pink-salmon, gradually transitioning to bright yellow towards the center. This striking color gradient creates a visual “aurora” effect, adding depth and interest.
Planting Wanda’s Aurora Dahlia
Plant ‘Wanda’s Aurora’ dahlia tubers outdoors in spring after frost danger has passed and soil temperature warms to at least 60°F (15°C). This typically occurs between late April and May.
Dahlias thrive in locations receiving 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. Morning sun is often preferred in hotter climates, as it is less intense than afternoon sun. Well-draining soil is crucial; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost, aged manure, or peat moss to improve drainage and aeration.
When planting, dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep. Place the tuber horizontally with the “eye” or growing point facing upwards. Cover the tuber with 2 to 3 inches of soil initially, gradually filling the hole as the stem sprouts. Space tubers 12 to 18 inches apart for proper growth and air circulation.
Caring for Wanda’s Aurora Dahlia
After planting, avoid watering until green shoots emerge. Overwatering newly planted tubers can lead to rot. Once sprouts are visible, dahlias require consistent, deep watering, typically 2 to 3 times per week, or more frequently in hot, dry conditions. Aim to provide enough water to penetrate 8 to 10 inches deep.
Fertilizing supports abundant blooms. Incorporate a balanced, all-purpose granular fertilizer into the planting area before planting. Throughout the growing season, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer periodically to encourage flowering over excessive foliage growth.
Due to their height and large blooms, ‘Wanda’s Aurora’ dahlias benefit from staking. Place sturdy 5 to 6-foot garden stakes at planting time to avoid damaging tubers later. As the plant grows, tie stems loosely to the support structure to prevent bending or breakage from wind or flower weight. Removing spent blooms (deadheading) encourages more flowers throughout the season.
Winter Storage for Wanda’s Aurora Dahlia
In colder climates, ‘Wanda’s Aurora’ dahlia tubers need to be lifted and stored indoors for winter. Dig them up after the first hard frost, which causes foliage to turn brown or black. This signals dormancy and allows the plant to send starches to the tubers for storage.
Cut dahlia stems back to 4 to 6 inches above ground. Carefully dig around the plant, about a foot away from the stem, to avoid damaging tubers. Gently lift the entire clump. After digging, remove excess soil. Some growers wash tubers, while others leave some soil.
Allow tubers to dry and cure for a few days in a cool, dry location with good air circulation. This curing toughens the skin and prevents rot. Once cured, store tubers in a cool, dark, slightly humid environment, ideally between 40-45°F (4-7°C) with 80-90% humidity. Suitable storage mediums include peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings, which help maintain moisture and prevent shriveling or rotting. Store tubers in breathable containers like cardboard boxes, milk crates, or plastic bins with ventilation holes, ensuring they do not touch.