Contents
Description
Dahlia Seniors Darkness is a stunning flower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was developed by Seniors Nursery in the Netherlands. This dahlia is a showstopper with its deep, dark burgundy blooms that are almost black in color. The flowers are large and fully double, with a diameter of up to 10 inches. Dahlia Seniors Darkness is an excellent choice for cut flowers and garden borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Seniors Darkness has large, fully double blooms that are almost black in color. The flowers have a diameter of up to 10 inches and are held on sturdy stems that can reach up to 3 feet in height. The foliage is dark green and the plant has a bushy, upright habit. Dahlia Seniors Darkness is a late-blooming variety that typically flowers from mid-summer to early autumn.
Care Guide
To keep your Dahlia Seniors Darkness healthy and blooming, follow these care tips:
Water: Dahlias need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize your dahlia plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. You can also add a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Soil: Dahlias grow best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting to improve its fertility.
Sunlight: Dahlia Seniors Darkness needs full sun to thrive. Plant it in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Seniors Darkness is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In cooler climates, you will need to dig up the tubers in the fall and store them indoors until the following spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Seniors Darkness is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from your dahlia plants and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Spray your plants with a strong stream of water to remove them, or use an insecticidal soap.
Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers of your dahlia plants. Use slug bait or handpick them to keep them under control.
Mildew: Powdery mildew can infect your dahlia plants, causing white, powdery patches on the leaves. Improve air circulation around your plants and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent mildew from taking hold.
Habitat
Dahlia Seniors Darkness is a hybrid variety that was developed in the Netherlands. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. This dahlia is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Dahlia Seniors Darkness in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Dahlia Seniors Darkness in a container. Make sure the container is at least 18 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Use a high-quality potting mix and water regularly.
Q: How do I propagate Dahlia Seniors Darkness?
A: Dahlia Seniors Darkness can be propagated by dividing the tubers in the spring. Dig up the tubers and separate them into pieces, making sure each piece has at least one eye. Plant the pieces in well-drained soil and water regularly.
Q: How tall does Dahlia Seniors Darkness grow?
A: Dahlia Seniors Darkness can reach a height of up to 3 feet.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dahlia Seniors Darkness?
A: Fertilize your dahlia plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. You can also add a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Related Plants
Here are some other dahlia varieties you might be interested in:
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Mystic Dreamer
- Dahlia Cafe Au Lait
- Dahlia Bishop of Llandaff
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-seniors-darkness
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/dahlia-care.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/guide/dahlia-seniors-darkness
