Dahlia Andrea Lawson

Description

Dahlia Andrea Lawson is a beautiful and vibrant flower that belongs to the Dahlia family. It is a hybrid dahlia, created by Dr. Keith Hammett in New Zealand. The flower is named after Andrea Lawson, who is an expert in plant physiology and biochemistry. Dahlia Andrea Lawson is a popular choice among gardeners due to its stunning magenta blooms, which can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. The plant grows up to 1.2 meters in height and blooms from mid-summer to the first frost.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Dahlia Andrea Lawson has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other dahlias. It has magenta blooms that can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. The flowers are semi-double, which means they have more than one row of petals. The plant grows up to 1.2 meters in height and has dark green foliage that provides a beautiful contrast to the vibrant blooms.

Care Guide

Proper care is essential to ensure that Dahlia Andrea Lawson thrives in your garden. Here are some essential care tips:

Water:

Dahlia Andrea Lawson requires regular watering to thrive. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather. Avoid watering the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilization:

The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.

Soil:

The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.

Sunlight:

Dahlia Andrea Lawson requires full sun to thrive. Plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. In hotter climates, the plant may benefit from some afternoon shade.

Hardiness Zones:

The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder zones, the plant should be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dahlia Andrea Lawson is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:

Pests:

Spider mites and aphids can be a problem for the plant. Regularly inspect the foliage for signs of infestation, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Diseases:

The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and botrytis. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If the plant does become infected, treat with a fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Habitat

Dahlia Andrea Lawson is native to New Zealand. It thrives in warm, sunny climates with well-draining soil. The plant is commonly grown in gardens and as a cut flower.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I fertilize Dahlia Andrea Lawson?

A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: Does Dahlia Andrea Lawson require full sun?

A: Yes, the plant requires full sun to thrive.

Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Dahlia Andrea Lawson?

A: The plant is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and botrytis.

Q: What is the bloom time for Dahlia Andrea Lawson?

A: The plant blooms from mid-summer to the first frost.

Related Plants

• Dahlia Bishop of Llandaff
• Dahlia Cafe au Lait
• Dahlia Cornel
• Dahlia David Howard
• Dahlia Firepot

References

• Gardenia.net. (2021). Dahlia ‘Andrea Lawson’. [online] Available at: https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/dahlia-andrea-lawson [Accessed 30 Jun. 2021].
• Blooming Secrets. (2021). Dahlia Andrea Lawson. [online] Available at: https://www.bloomingsecrets.com/plant/dahlia-andrea-lawson [Accessed 30 Jun. 2021].
• BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (2021). How to grow dahlias. [online] Available at: https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-dahlias/ [Accessed 30 Jun. 2021].