To date, the spectacular decoration of the site are annual dahlias. Growing them will not cause much trouble. These flowers are very popular among gardeners. And this is understandable. Plants have colorful and vibrant flowers that are very similar to perennial dahlias. In addition, all types of them have a long flowering period.
Dahlia is a perennial or annual plant with a tuberous root system that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The homeland of this wonderful flower is considered the countries of Mexico, Chile and Peru. In ancient times, Indians often grew plants because of edible tubers. In Europe, dahlias appeared about 410 years ago.
Plant height is from 25 to 65 centimeters. They are characterized by abundant branching, cirrus and large leaves. Coloring of flowers is diverse: from pastel to bright colors. The flowering period of the plant is long from the beginning of summer to frost. Dahlias will look beautiful on flower beds, along roads and on lawns. Annual dahlias can also be grown at home, for example, on the balcony or in special boxes.
Popular types and varieties of dahlias
The most popular varieties of dahlia are:
- "funny guys" - plants have a height of up to 90 centimeters, non-double flowers, large;
- Mignon Mishung - plants have a height of about 48 centimeters, inflorescences are non-wide, medium-sized;
- "Rigoletto" - plants are up to 48 centimeters high, semi-double, medium-sized inflorescences.
In autumn, annual dahlias form tubers.
Annual dahlias. Growing and planting
Annual dahlias should be planted in the ground after the end of spring cold. Place them in warm and bright places. Make sure that the soil is fertile and loose. After planting in open ground, in the first days, provide the plant with abundant watering, then water moderately.
In order for the flowering period to be long, pinch the main shoots and remove flowers that have already faded.
Annual dahlias. Growing from seeds.
Earlier cultivation was only allowed if new varieties were required. But at present, the reproduction of this plant can occur by seed method, while the varietal qualities of plants are not lost. However, it will no longer be possible to share such flowers with tubers in the future.
Growing dahlias from seeds occurs by sowing in open ground. The seeds of the plant are large. Shoots may appear within 7 days after sowing. But remember that seeds and seedlings can die if the air temperature drops to minus one degree. Therefore, it is necessary to plant seedlings after the end of spring colds.
Plant seeds can be harvested shortly after a flowering period. In the ripening stage, the seeds will acquire a brown-dark color. Arrange the cut flower baskets in a ventilated and dry room, then empty them of garbage and put them in a paper bag. In this way, seeds can be stored until spring.
If you have already planted annual dahlias, the cultivation of these flowers will be better with regular changes in the place of planting. This must be done so that the plants return to their original place no earlier than 2.5 years later. Also, do not plant plants in those places where previous plants had fungal diseases. If changing seats during planting is not possible, then soil and soil should be replaced in the wells where dahlias will be planted. Make sure there are no weeds around the flower. Try to weed as needed. Spray plants once a week in the evening, but avoid stagnation of moisture in the soil.
A lot of people appreciate and love annual dahlias: growing them for sale can be one of the ways to replenish the family budget.