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Description
Dahlia David Howard is a popular hybrid cultivar of Dahlia, a genus of bushy, tuberous, and perennial plants native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. This plant is known for its large, showy flowers with deep reddish-orange petals and dark foliage. It is named after David Howard, a British horticulturist who introduced this plant in the 20th century.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia David Howard can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its flowers can reach up to 8 inches in diameter and have a distinctive reddish-orange color with dark foliage. The plant has an upright growth habit and can form a dense clump of leaves and flowers. Its leaves are dark green and deeply lobed, giving the plant an attractive appearance even when not in bloom.
Care Guide
To ensure the optimal growth and health of Dahlia David Howard, it is important to follow a proper care guide. Here are some tips:
Water: Dahlia David Howard requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil is well-drained. Water the plant at the base, avoiding the leaves and flowers.
Fertilization: Dahlia David Howard benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and supplement with liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Dahlia David Howard prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH. Adding compost or organic matter can improve soil quality and help retain moisture.
Sunlight: Dahlia David Howard needs full sun to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Dahlia David Howard is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In colder zones, the plant needs to be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia David Howard is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common issues such as:
Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or handpick them to prevent damage.
Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformed leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and flowers. Use a fungicide or remove infected parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Dahlia David Howard is a hybrid cultivar and does not occur naturally in the wild. However, it is commonly grown in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant. It prefers warm, sunny climates and can be found in USDA zones 8-10.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia David Howard grow in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia David Howard can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should I deadhead Dahlia David Howard?
A: Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Do it regularly throughout the growing season.
Q: Should I prune Dahlia David Howard?
A: Pruning can help the plant to maintain its shape and improve air circulation. Cut back the stems by one-third in early summer to promote bushier growth.
Q: Can I propagate Dahlia David Howard from cuttings?
A: Yes, Dahlia David Howard can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Dahlia David Howard:
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘Moonfire’
- Dahlia ‘Spartacus’
References
- RHS Plantfinder Dahlia ‘David Howard’ (https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/55680/Dahlia-David-Howard-(D)/Details)
- Gardenia Dahlia ‘David Howard’ (https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-david-howard)
- Gardening Know How Dahlia David Howard Care: Tips For Growing Dahlia David Howard (https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/growing-dahlia-david-howard.htm)
