Dahlia Duet
Contents
Description
Dahlia Duet is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was bred by crossing two Dahlia species – Dahlia pinnata and Dahlia coccinea. It is a relatively new cultivar that was introduced in 2011 and has since become a popular choice for gardeners and florists alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Anthophyta |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Duet is a bushy plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It produces large, double blooms that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers have a distinctive white and pink coloration, with the outer petals being white and the inner petals being pink. The foliage is dark green and finely divided, with a fern-like appearance.
Care Guide
Water: Dahlia Duet requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: Dahlia Duet prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. A minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day is recommended for optimal growth and blooming.
Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Duet is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In colder climates, the plant can be grown as an annual or lifted and stored indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Duet is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. Use a slug and snail bait to control infestations.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control infestations.
Habitat
Dahlia Duet is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in sunny, well-drained locations. It can be grown in a variety of landscapes, including gardens, containers, and flower beds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia Duet be grown indoors?
A: While Dahlia Duet can be grown indoors, it requires a lot of sunlight and space to grow properly. It is best suited for outdoor growing.
Q: How often should Dahlia Duet be fertilized?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: How long do Dahlia Duet blooms last?
A: The blooms of Dahlia Duet can last up to 2 weeks, depending on growing conditions.
Q: Can Dahlia Duet be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, Dahlia Duet can be grown from seeds, but it is easier to propagate the plant from cuttings or tubers.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘David Howard’
- Dahlia ‘Moonfire’
- Dahlia ‘Peaches and Cream’
References
- “Dahlia Duet.” National Garden Bureau. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://ngb.org/dahlia-duet/
- “Dahlia Duet.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/329722/Dahlia-Duet/Details
- “Dahlia Duet.” The Spruce. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/dahlia-duet-plant-profile-5072956
