Dahlia Ball 'Sweet Suzanne'

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Dahlia Ball ‘Sweet Suzanne’ is a radiant ball-type dahlia celebrated for its soft, glowing palette and perfectly rounded form. Each bloom is a sculpted sphere of tightly arranged, neatly quilled petals that create a harmonious spiral pattern. The flowers display a breathtaking gradient of color, beginning with warm peach and apricot tones at the base of the petals and transitioning to pale blush or creamy pastel at the tips. As light moves across the bloom, the petals catch it in a way that makes the flower appear softly illuminated from within.

Planting Tips for Dahlia Ball ‘Sweet Suzanne’

Site Selection

• Choose a location with full sun, ideally receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily.

• Ensure soil is well-draining; dahlias dislike soggy soil and can rot in standing moisture.

Soil Preparation

• Amend soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and texture.

• Aim for a loose, friable soil structure that allows tubers to expand easily.

• A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.2–7.0) is ideal.

Planting Depth and Spacing

• Plant tubers once the soil has warmed to about 60°F and all danger of frost has passed.

• Dig a hole about 4 to 6 inches deep.

• Place the tuber horizontally with the eye facing upward.

• Backfill lightly and avoid heavy watering until sprouts emerge.

• Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart for good airflow and strong growth.

Support

• Provide a sturdy stake or support at planting time, as ball dahlias often produce tall, flower-heavy stems.

• Tie the plant loosely as it grows to prevent bending or breakage.

Watering

• Water deeply but infrequently until the plant is established.

• Once growing actively, keep soil evenly moist but never saturated.

• Morning watering is best to reduce disease risk.

Feeding

• Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer (such as 5-10-10) to encourage strong stems and abundant blooms.

• Feed every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season.

Maintenance

• Deadhead frequently to promote continuous flowering.

• Pinch out the growing tip at 12–16 inches tall to encourage branching and fuller bloom production.

Season-End Care

• In cold climates, dig and store tubers after frost.

• In mild climates, tubers can be overwintered in the ground with mulch for protection.