Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’

Description

Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ is a stunning variety that offers dark purple-bronze foliage as a backdrop to pale pink flowers with a striking magenta stripe. This beautiful dahlia is perfect for adding colour and charm to your garden. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ thrives throughout the growing season.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. This allows the plant to establish strong roots and grow vigorously throughout the season.
• Early Summer: If you’re planting Dahlia later, early summer can also be suitable, but make sure the risk of frost has passed to ensure the plant’s roots aren’t damaged.

Choosing the Right Site

• Sunlight: Dahlia thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Ideally, select a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and blooming.
• Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained. Dahlias, including Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’, don’t tolerate waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. To improve drainage, mix organic matter such as compost into the soil before planting.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width of your Dahlia and about the same depth. This gives the roots plenty of space to spread out and grow.
2. Soil Preparation: Enhance the soil’s fertility and drainage by adding compost or organic matter. Dahlia benefits from nutrient-rich soil, which supports vibrant blooms.
3. Planting the Dahlia: Place the tuber in the hole with the growing tips facing upwards. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the tuber to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Ensure the area drains well to prevent waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ is moderately drought-tolerant. Water regularly during dry periods, but allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Be careful not to overwater, as too much moisture can lead to root problems.
• Dormant Season: In the winter months, reduce watering significantly as the Dahlia enters dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding Instructions

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser at the start of the growing season to promote strong growth and flowering in Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’.
• Mid-Summer: During the growing season, a light feeding in mid-summer will encourage continuous blooms and help maintain the plant’s health and vigour.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: To extend the blooming period, regularly remove faded flowers from Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’. This practice not only promotes new blooms but also keeps the plant tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last blooms fade, cut back Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ to ground level. This prepares the plant for winter dormancy and encourages strong growth in the next season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature during the growing season.
• Winter: Protect the tubers by adding a layer of mulch around the plant in winter. This helps prevent frost damage and ensures the plant survives the cold months.

Supporting the Plant

Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ typically has a compact growth habit, but taller varieties may need staking to prevent damage from wind or heavy rain. Use lightweight stakes or cages to support the plant without causing harm to the stems.

Final Tips

Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ is a low-maintenance plant that offers long-lasting beauty in your garden. By planting it in full sun or partial shade, with well-drained soil, and by following a simple care routine, you’ll enjoy stunning flowers throughout the summer and into the autumn. Incorporate Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’ into your garden for a lovely splash of colour that will attract bees and other beneficial insects, making it a perfect choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.

RHS Details

See more Dahlia from Proctors