Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’

Description

Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ is a striking plant with beautiful, ruffled ivory white flowers that sit delicately atop dark, almost black foliage. This compact-growing variety is ideal for borders or containers and blooms from mid-summer to the first frost. Follow this comprehensive planting guide to ensure your Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ thrives and adds elegance to your garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The optimal time to plant Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ is in spring, when the soil begins to warm. This allows the tubers to establish themselves and promotes strong growth before the blooming season.
• Autumn: You can also plant Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ in early autumn, allowing the plant to settle before dormancy, ensuring better growth in the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ thrives in full sun, so choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. This encourages healthy growth and vibrant flower production.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for your Dahlia. This plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. You can mix compost or organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: When planting Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’, dig a hole that is approximately twice the width and depth of the tuber. This provides enough space for the roots to grow and spread comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter or compost into the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. This will help promote vigorous growth and vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place the tuber in the prepared hole with the “eyes” (the growing points) facing upwards. Ensure the top of the tuber is level with the surrounding soil. Gently backfill the hole with soil and firm it down to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Thoroughly water after planting to help settle the soil. Ensure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging, which could lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ needs regular watering during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as too much moisture can cause root issues.
• Dormant Season: Once the plant enters dormancy in winter, reduce watering. Dahlia requires little moisture during this period, so only water if the soil becomes extremely dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to help Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ develop strong new growth. A nutrient-rich soil promotes healthy blooms and strong stems.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can encourage continued flowering. This ensures your Dahlia remains vibrant throughout the growing season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly deadhead your Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ by removing spent flowers. This encourages new blooms and keeps the plant looking tidy, extending its flowering period.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers fade in autumn, cut back to ground level. This prepares the plant for winter dormancy and promotes healthier growth in the next season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ in spring. This will help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate the soil temperature. Organic materials like bark chips or compost work well.
• Winter: In winter, add a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and prevent frost heaving. This helps your Dahlia survive the colder months.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ is compact but may benefit from staking, especially in areas prone to wind. A simple stake will provide support and prevent the stems from bending or breaking under the weight of the flowers.

Final Tips

Dahlia ‘White Cockatoo’ is a stunning and low-maintenance plant that will add elegance to your garden. By planting it in full sun with well-drained soil and following a regular care routine, you’ll enjoy vibrant, ruffled ivory blooms from mid-summer until the first frosts. Add this Dahlia to your garden or container collection to enhance your outdoor space and enjoy its beauty throughout the season!

 

RHS Details

See more Dahlias from Proctors