Contents
Description
Dahlia Honka Red is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid variety that produces vibrant red blooms with a yellow center. The plant grows up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. It is a late bloomer and produces flowers from mid-summer until the first frost. Dahlia Honka Red is a great addition to gardens, patios, and balconies, and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Honka Red has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 6 inches in length. The plant produces numerous flowers that are about 4-6 inches in diameter. The flowers have a vibrant red color and a yellow center, with pointed petals that curve slightly backward. The stems are sturdy and upright, and the plant has a bushy growth habit. Dahlia Honka Red is a great plant for adding color and texture to garden beds or containers.
Care Guide
Dahlia Honka Red is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to thrive.
Water
Dahlia Honka Red requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Feed Dahlia Honka Red every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to weak stems and fewer flowers.
Soil
Dahlia Honka Red prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting to improve the soil quality. The ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight
Dahlia Honka Red performs best in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming.
Hardiness Zones
Dahlia Honka Red is hardy in USDA Zones 8-11. In colder climates, the plant should be dug up and stored indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Honka Red is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can still be affected by some common problems.
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Slugs and snails
Diseases
- Powdery mildew
- Botrytis blight
- Verticillium wilt
To prevent pest and disease problems, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, receives adequate water and sunlight, and is properly fertilized.
Habitat
Dahlia Honka Red is native to Mexico and Central America and prefers warm, sunny climates. The plant grows well in well-draining soil and can be found in gardens, patios, and balconies worldwide.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Dahlia Honka Red?
A: Dahlia Honka Red can be planted in the spring after the last frost date or in the fall before the first frost date.
Q: How often should I deadhead Dahlia Honka Red?
A: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooming throughout the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Dahlia Honka Red in a container?
A: Yes, Dahlia Honka Red can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and drainage holes are provided.
Q: How do I store Dahlia Honka Red during the winter?
A: In colder climates, the plant should be dug up and stored indoors during the winter. Cut back the stems to about 6 inches, gently lift the tubers from the soil, and remove any excess soil. Let the tubers dry in a warm, dry place for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry location.
Related Plants
- Dahlia Lilac Time
- Dahlia Mystic Illusion
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Burgundy Red
References
- “Dahlia Honka Red.” American Dahlia Society, www.dahlia.org/honka-red/.
- “Dahlia Honka Red.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-honka-red.
- “Dahlia Honka Red.” National Garden Bureau, www.ngb.org/year-of-the-dahlia-2022/dahlia-honka-red/.
