Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ is a stunning single-flowering dahlia featuring rich purple blooms set against deep dark foliage. Growing to a height of approximately 60cm, it is ideal for garden borders, patio containers, and cut flower arrangements. This dahlia blooms continuously from midsummer to autumn and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, adding vibrant colour to any outdoor space.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ is in spring after the risk of frost has passed. This ensures the tubers establish strong roots before flowering.
After the Last Frost: If planting young plants instead of tubers, wait until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up for optimal growth.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ thrives in full sun. Choose a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for the best flowering performance.
Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. If the soil is heavy or clay-based, improve drainage by adding compost or well-rotted manure.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the tuber or root ball and deep enough to accommodate the plant comfortably.
Soil Preparation: Mix in organic matter such as compost to enrich the soil and enhance drainage.
Planting Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’: When planting tubers, position them with the eye (growth point) facing upwards and cover with about 5cm of soil. If planting from a pot, ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help settle the soil and promote root development.
Watering Requirements
During Growth: Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ requires consistent moisture. Water regularly, especially in dry spells, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Avoid Overwatering: Excessive watering can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.
Feeding
Early Growth: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks once new shoots appear.
Mid-Summer Boost: Use a high-potassium fertiliser, such as a tomato feed, to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms from Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ to prolong flowering and promote fresh growth.
End of Season Pruning: After the first frost, cut back the plant to ground level to prepare for winter dormancy.
Mulching and Winter Care
Mulching in Spring and Summer: Apply mulch around the base of Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.
Winter Protection: In colder climates, lift the tubers after the first frost, dry them, and store in a frost-free environment over winter. If left in the ground, cover with a thick mulch layer for protection.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: While Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ is compact, staking may be beneficial in exposed areas to prevent wind damage.
Final Tips
By planting Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ in a sunny, well-drained location and following this care guide, you will enjoy a striking display of purple blooms from midsummer through autumn. This easy-to-grow dahlia is perfect for garden beds, patio containers, and cut flower arrangements. With regular feeding, watering, and deadheading, Dahlia ‘Happy Days Purple’ will reward you with continuous and eye-catching blooms all season long.
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