Description:
Dahlia hybrids are commonly grown as garden plants. The Aztecs gathered and cultivated the dahlia for food, ceremony, as well as decorative purposes, and the long woody stem of one variety was used for small pipes.
The dahlia is also known as Tenjikubotan in Japanese, which literally means 'Peony of India'. According to the Japanese language of flowers, it means "Good Taste".
Dahlias grow best in full sun, although many varieties will tolerate light shade. They prefer a loamy soil with neutral or slightly acid pH and plendy of organic matter. They need constant moisture and good drainage. Dahlias can be propagated by dividing the tubers and by taking cuttings. It is also possible to grow dahlias from seed.
Uses:
Dahias are grown for every purpose from screens to pot plants. They are used in flower beds, as mass plantings, or as border plants. They also make excellent container plants. Many gardeners grow dahlias for cutting.
Problems:
Dahlias may have a problem with powdery mildew, especially in humid areas. They occasionally have viruses, crown gall, rotrot, or wilt. Aphids and leafhoppers are the most common pests.
