Contents
Description
Dahlia Silver Years is a stunning dahlia cultivar that produces large, fully double flowers with a unique color combination of silver and lavender. This variety is a great addition to any garden due to its beauty and ease of care. Dahlia Silver Years is a member of the Asteraceae family and is native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. It is a popular cut flower due to its long vase life and is often used in floral arrangements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Silver Years grows up to 4 feet tall and produces large, fully double flowers that can reach up to 10 inches in diameter. The flowers are a unique combination of silver and lavender, with each petal displaying a slightly different shade. The blooms are held atop strong, sturdy stems that do not require staking. The foliage is dark green and slightly toothed, with a velvety texture. Dahlia Silver Years blooms from mid-summer to early fall and is a great addition to any garden or cut flower arrangement.
Care Guide
To ensure the health and vitality of your Dahlia Silver Years, it is important to follow these care guidelines:- Water: Dahlia Silver Years requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Water deeply once a week, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Dahlia Silver Years prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.- Sunlight: Dahlia Silver Years prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Silver Years is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder regions, dig up the tubers in the fall and store them indoors until spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Silver Years is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Improve air circulation and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Dahlia Silver Years is native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. In its native habitat, Dahlia Silver Years grows in open woodlands and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Dahlia Silver Years?
A: Plant Dahlia Silver Years in the spring after the last frost date in your area.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dahlia Silver Years?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Dahlia Silver Years be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia Silver Years can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 18 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.
Q: How do I overwinter Dahlia Silver Years?
A: In colder regions, dig up the tubers in the fall after the foliage has died back. Store the tubers in a cool, dry place over the winter and replant in the spring.
Related Plants
Other dahlia cultivars that are similar to Dahlia Silver Years include:- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’- Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’- Dahlia ‘David Howard’- Dahlia ‘Mystic Illusion’
References
– American Dahlia Society. (n.d.). Dahlia Silver Years. Retrieved from https://www.dahlia.org/silver-years/- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Dahlia ‘Silver Years’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=263977
