Contents
Description
Dahlia Happy Hanny is a stunning flower that blooms in the summer and fall months. This dahlia cultivar features large, fully double, dark pink flowers that grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The petals are slightly curved and have a velvety texture, making them a popular choice for cut flower arrangements. The plant itself can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
The Dahlia Happy Hanny has large, fully double flowers that bloom in a dark pink color. The petals are slightly curved and have a velvety texture, making them an attractive choice for cut flower arrangements. The plant grows up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide and has dark green leaves that are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem. The plant also features a tuberous root system that is used for storage during the winter months.
Care Guide
The Dahlia Happy Hanny requires moderate care and maintenance to thrive in your garden. Here are some tips to help your plant grow and bloom beautifully:
Water
The Dahlia Happy Hanny needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, and more often if the weather is hot and dry. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil around the plant once a month during the growing season. This will provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to produce healthy foliage and blooms.
Soil
The Dahlia Happy Hanny prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or peat moss before planting.
Sunlight
The Dahlia Happy Hanny thrives in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for the best results.
Hardiness Zones
The Dahlia Happy Hanny is hardy in USDA Zones 8-11. If you live in a colder climate, you can dig up the tubers in the fall and store them indoors until the spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dahlia Happy Hanny is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. They can be controlled with a strong spray of water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
Fungal Diseases
The Dahlia Happy Hanny is susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and gray mold. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Dahlia Happy Hanny is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in sunny, well-draining soils. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Dahlia Happy Hanny?
A: The best time to plant Dahlia Happy Hanny is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dahlia Happy Hanny?
A: You should fertilize your Dahlia Happy Hanny once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Dahlia Happy Hanny in a container?
A: Yes, Dahlia Happy Hanny can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and is provided with adequate water and nutrients.
Q: How do I overwinter Dahlia Happy Hanny tubers?
A: Dig up the tubers in the fall after the first frost and allow them to dry out for a few days. Then, store them in a cool, dry place like a basement or garage until the spring.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘Mystic Illusion’
- Dahlia ‘Redskin’
References
- “Dahlia Happy Hanny.” Longfield Gardens. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.longfield-gardens.com/plantname/Dahlia-Happy-Hanny.
- “Dahlias.” University of Minnesota Extension. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/dahlias.
- “Dahlia Happy Hanny.” American Dahlia Society. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.dahlia.org/garden-culture/dahlia-happy-hanny/.
