Dahlia Dinnerplate 'Tartan'

Dahlia Dinnerplate 'Tartan' is a truly striking variety, known for its massive, vibrant blooms and dramatic color contrast. The rich red and bright white petals make it a standout in any garden or floral arrangement, and its large flowers (up to 12 inches in diameter) ensure that it catches attention. Whether used in garden beds, as a cut flower, or as part of a landscape design, 'Tartan' adds a bold, fiery touch to any space. With proper care, including staking, regular watering, and full sunlight, this dahlia will reward gardeners with months of breathtaking beauty and color.

Zones: 3 - 11

General Characteristics:

• Type: Dinnerplate Dahlia
• Flower Shape: The blooms of 'Tartan' are large, round, and open, characteristic of the Dinnerplate variety. The flower petals are arranged in several layers, radiating symmetrically from the central disk to create a full and voluminous flower with a slight flatness. These dense, ruffled blooms have a stunning, multi-layered appearance that makes them especially eye-catching.
• Bloom Color: The most distinctive feature of Dahlia 'Tartan' is its bold, two-tone color pattern. The blooms feature a deep, rich red in the inner petals that gradually transitions to a bright white at the outer edges. The contrast between these vibrant colors is what gives the flowers their striking appearance, reminiscent of a tartan or plaid pattern, hence the name. The mix of red and white can create a fiery and festive look, making it a popular choice for adding drama and interest to gardens or bouquets.
• Flower Size: True to its Dinnerplate classification, 'Tartan' produces some of the largest flowers in the dahlia family, often reaching 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) in diameter. These large blooms stand out due to their size and the eye-catching contrast of their colors.
• Petal Texture: The petals of 'Tartan' are smooth yet firm, with a slightly waxy finish that helps them hold their shape even in windy or rainy conditions. The edges of the petals are slightly ruffled, adding texture and depth to the flower's appearance.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: Dahlia 'Tartan' grows to a tall height of about 4 to 5 feet (120 to 150 cm), making it an ideal choice for the back of garden borders or as a central focal point in mixed beds. Its tall stature allows the blooms to shine above other plants in the garden.
• Spread: The plant has a moderate spread, usually reaching 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) in width. It has a slightly bushy, upright growth habit, helping it fill out garden spaces without becoming too sprawling.
• Foliage: The foliage of 'Tartan' is dark green with a slightly glossy finish. The leaves are large, pointed, and slightly serrated, providing a nice contrast to the bright colors of the flowers. The foliage complements the vibrant blooms, enhancing their visual appeal.
• Growth Habit: 'Tartan' has an upright, strong growth habit with sturdy stems that can support the large, heavy blooms. However, given the size and weight of the flowers, staking or some form of support is recommended to prevent the flowers from drooping, especially during windy or rainy weather.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Like most dahlias, 'Tartan' thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow optimally. Ample sunlight ensures that the plant grows vigorously and produces large, colorful flowers.
• Soil: 'Tartan' prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 6.5) is ideal for optimal growth. Adding compost or well-rotted manure will improve the soil structure and provide essential nutrients.
• Watering: Regular watering is important, particularly during dry periods. The soil should remain consistently moist but not soggy. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, as dahlias do not tolerate standing water.
• Hardiness Zone: Dahlia 'Tartan' is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10. In colder climates, the tubers should be dug up before the first frost, stored in a cool, dry place over the winter, and replanted in the spring after the threat of frost has passed.

Blooming Period:

• Flowering Time: Dahlia 'Tartan' typically begins to bloom in mid-summer, around July, and continues blooming through the fall until the first frost. The long blooming period ensures that the plant provides months of vibrant color.
• Pollinators: The large and colorful flowers of 'Tartan' attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These insects help pollinate the plant, contributing to a healthier garden ecosystem.

Care and Maintenance:

• Deadheading: Regular deadheading, or removing spent blooms, encourages the plant to produce more flowers and keeps the garden looking tidy. By removing faded flowers, the plant can focus its energy on producing new blooms instead of seeds.
• Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer should be applied in early spring to support strong, healthy growth. Once blooming begins, a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium will encourage large, vibrant flowers. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers.
• Pest and Disease Control: While 'Tartan' is generally resistant to pests, common issues with dahlias include aphids, slugs, and snails. Regularly check for pests and use organic treatments, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, if necessary. Ensure proper air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
• Staking: Given the size of the blooms and the height of the plant, staking or providing support is often necessary. Plant supports or stakes can help keep the flowers upright, preventing them from toppling over in windy conditions or under the weight of the large blooms.

Uses:

• Garden Beds: Dahlia 'Tartan' is an excellent choice for garden beds, particularly where dramatic color is desired. The large blooms and striking color contrast make it perfect for creating a focal point in borders or as an accent plant in a mixed planting scheme.
• Cut Flowers: The bold and colorful blooms of 'Tartan' are perfect for cut flowers. They have a long vase life, often lasting for up to a week or more. Their bright, contrasting colors make them popular in floral arrangements, especially for weddings, parties, and special occasions.
• Landscaping: 'Tartan' is well-suited for landscaping, where its vibrant blooms can be used in formal or informal garden settings. The long blooming period and bold colors make it a wonderful addition to flower beds, borders, and even containers.

Planting Instructions

1. Choosing the Right Location

Dahlias require specific growing conditions to thrive, so selecting the right spot is key:

• Sunlight: Dahlias love full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The more sun they get, the better the blooming.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential. Dahlias do best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0). If your soil is heavy clay or drains poorly, amend it with organic matter (like compost) to improve drainage and fertility.
• Protection from Wind: Although dahlias are relatively tall and sturdy, they can be vulnerable to strong winds. Plant them in a sheltered spot to prevent breakage or damage to the flowers.

2. When to Plant Dahlias

Dahlias are warm-season flowers and should be planted once the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. In most regions, this means planting them in late spring, typically around late April to early May, after the last frost date.

• Soil Temperature: The ideal soil temperature for planting dahlia tubers is around 60°F (15°C). If the soil is too cold, the tubers may rot before they have a chance to sprout.

3. Preparing the Soil

Good soil preparation helps dahlias grow strong and healthy:

• Amend the Soil: Before planting, work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. This adds nutrients and helps with drainage.
• Loosen the Soil: Dahlias have tubers that need to spread out, so make sure the soil is loose, not compacted.
• Add Fertilizer: Mix a slow-release balanced fertilizer or one specifically designed for flowering plants into the soil before planting to give your dahlias a nutrient boost.

4. Planting the Tubers

Once the soil is prepared, it's time to plant your dahlia tubers.

• Spacing: Dahlias should be spaced about 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart, depending on the variety. Taller varieties may need more space, while compact varieties can be planted a bit closer together.
• Planting Depth: Dig a hole or trench around 6 inches (15 cm) deep. Place the tuber in the hole with the "eyes" (small, bud-like protrusions) facing upward. If you’re planting multiple tubers, make sure there is enough room for the tubers to spread out as they grow.
• Orientation: If the tuber has a noticeable direction (like a flat side), plant it so that the eyes are facing upward. If unsure, it’s fine to plant the tuber sideways or with the flat side facing down.
• Covering: Gently cover the tuber with soil, and water it well after planting. Avoid burying the tuber too deeply; about 6 inches is ideal. The soil should be loose enough to allow the tuber to sprout easily.

5. Watering and Mulching

• Watering: After planting, water the area thoroughly to settle the soil around the tuber. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, while the tubers are establishing themselves. Once the plants start growing, they need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
• Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulch like straw, leaves, or grass clippings works well. However, avoid placing mulch directly on the tubers.

6. Staking or Supporting Dahlias

Dahlias can grow tall, especially larger varieties, so they may need support:

• Staking: To prevent the stems from flopping over, you can insert stakes near the plants and tie the stems loosely to the stakes. This is especially important for tall varieties or those with large flowers.
• Cages: Another option is to use a wire cage around the plant to provide support as it grows. This keeps the plant upright and the flowers undamaged by wind or rain.

7. Fertilizing and Care During the Growing Season

Once your dahlias are planted, it’s important to feed and care for them as they grow:

• Fertilizing: After planting, you can give dahlias a light dose of a high-phosphorus fertilizer to encourage blooming. Later in the growing season, switch to a balanced fertilizer or one that is lower in nitrogen. Over-fertilizing with too much nitrogen can result in lush foliage but fewer flowers.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage new flowers and keep the plant looking tidy.
• Pruning: Prune the stems lightly to encourage branching. If you're growing large varieties, you may want to pinch off the top few buds to encourage bushier growth.

8. Aftercare and Harvesting

• Watering: Ensure that dahlias receive regular watering throughout the growing season, especially when the weather is hot and dry. The soil should stay moist but not waterlogged.
• Cutting Flowers: Dahlias are wonderful cut flowers! If you want to enjoy them indoors, cut them in the early morning or evening when they’re freshest, and place them in water immediately.

9. Overwintering Dahlias (for cold climates)

• Digging Up Tubers: In colder climates (zones 7 and below), you’ll need to dig up dahlia tubers before the first frost hits. Carefully lift the tubers with a spade or fork, being careful not to damage them. Trim the foliage and let the tubers dry for a couple of days in a cool, dry place.
• Storage: After drying, store the tubers in a cool, frost-free location, like a basement or garage, in a box with peat moss, sawdust, or sand to keep them dry. Check on the tubers periodically to make sure they haven’t rotted.