Chumasande MatiwaneWhen in full bloom, dahlias can provide your garden with some of the biggest and most spectacular flowers in many different sizes, forms, and colours.
However, most dahlias are not winter-hardy and tend to split in freezing temperatures or mould in soggy, wet soil. You might uproot them indoors for the winter, but there are other ways you can care for them.
Wait for the first frost
Allow your dahlias to remain in the ground until the first light frost blackens the foliage. This signals that the growing season has ended and gives the tubers time to mature fully before they are lifted.
Cut back the stems
After the foliage has died back, trim the stems to about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) above the ground. This makes the tubers easier to handle and reduces the risk of disease during storage.
Mulch them
If you live in a region with mild winters, like the KZN province where the ground rarely freezes, you may be able to leave your dahlias in the garden. After cutting back the stems, apply a thick layer of straw, bark, leaves, or compost over the planting area to insulate the tubers from cold temperatures.
Protect container-grown dahlias
Dahlias grown in pots are more vulnerable to freezing because the soil cools quickly. Move containers into a frost-free garage, shed, or greenhouse before severe cold arrives. Water sparingly during winter to keep the tubers from drying out completely.
Replant them again in Spring.
When the danger of frost has passed, and the soil has warmed, replant your stored tubers in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Healthy, well-preserved tubers will quickly produce strong shoots and an abundance of blooms.
Image Credit: Pexels
Most gardeners always uproot their dahlias and keep them indoors for the winter, but with these guidelines, you can still enjoy them during mild winters. A little winter preparation goes a long way.
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Feature Image: Pexels
