Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR

Description

Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR is a stunning dark-leaved variety with vibrant orange blooms that flower continuously from summer until the first frosts. Compact at 45cm tall, this dahlia is perfect for borders and containers. Follow this comprehensive planting and care guide to ensure your Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR thrives and produces an abundance of flowers throughout the season.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR is in spring after the risk of frost has passed. This allows the tubers to establish and develop strong growth before the flowering season begins.
• Early Summer: For those planting later in the season, Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR can still be successfully grown, provided it has sufficient time to establish before peak blooming.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Dahlia thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to encourage maximum flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential. If planting in heavier soil, improve drainage by incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.

Planting Instructions

1. Preparing the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 30cm and mix in compost to enhance fertility and drainage.
2. Planting Depth: Place the tuber or young plant in a hole deep enough to cover the roots, ensuring the top of the tuber is just below the soil surface.
3. Spacing: Space multiple plants around 30cm apart to allow for airflow and healthy growth.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the plant establish, but avoid waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Deep watering twice a week is ideal during dry spells.
• Dormant Season: Once your Dahlia has finished flowering and the first frosts arrive, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.

Feeding

• Spring to Early Summer: Apply a balanced fertiliser every two weeks to encourage strong growth.
• Mid to Late Summer: Switch to a high-potassium fertiliser (such as tomato feed) to promote abundant flowering.

Deadheading and Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: Once frost has blackened the foliage, cut back the stems to ground level and either lift the tubers for winter storage or mulch well if left in the ground.

Mulching and Winter Care

• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of your Dahlia in autumn to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Overwintering: In colder areas, lift the tubers and store them in a cool, dry place to protect them from frost.

Supporting the Plant

• Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR is naturally compact, so staking is not usually necessary. However, in exposed locations, providing light support can prevent damage from strong winds.

Final Tips

Dahlia ‘Lubega Dark Orange’ PBR is a must-have for any garden, providing a long-lasting display of bright orange blooms against deep foliage. By ensuring full sun, well-drained soil, and regular feeding, you’ll enjoy its flowers from summer until the first frosts. Whether in borders or containers, this Dahlia will be a show-stopping addition to your outdoor space.

RHS Details

See more Dahlia from Proctors