Blooms of Cactus and Semi-Cactus Dahlia Varieties
Re-imagined Guide to Dazzling Dahlias: A Step-by-Step Growth Journey
Embrace the allure of those striking, spiky-bloomed dahlias, tracing their lineage back to a singular survivor from a 1872 Dutch import. These cactus and semi-cactus dahlia varieties withstand the elements, boasting a star-like structure that shrugs off inclement weather due to their lack of density.
Savor the fact that they don't require excessive staking like other dahlia types, as their less heavy heads make them more resilient to harsh weather conditions. These vivid blooms make splendid cut flowers, adding a burst of color to indoor arrangements.
Tend to cactus and semi-cactus dahlias in much the same way as their brethren, regulating watering, pinching out the growing tip when the plant reaches around 20cm in height, and staking taller varieties. Once they bloom, refuel them with a high potash feed like tomato feed every fortnight to keep the flowers coming.
Remember, however, that unlike other dahlia types, cactus and semi-cactus dahlias aren't visited by bees or other pollinators due to the inaccessibility of the flowers' central portions. If you're partial to bee-friendly blooms, opt for single-flowered dahlias instead.
The enchanting differences between cactus and semi-cactus dahlias lie in their blooms:
Captivating Choices
- Cactus dahlias flaunt fully double blooms with very narrow petals, typically curving inwards, spanning from miniature to colossal proportions.
- Semi-cactus dahlias exhibit fully double, fluffy-looking flowers characterized by broader bases at the bottom and a rolled-in appearance for approximately half their length.
A Stunning Selection:
Dahlia 'Kenora Challenger'
Combining style and stature, this semi-cactus dahlia marvels with striking, luminous white spiky blooms, towering at a height of 1.2m with a modest 30cm spread.
Dahlia 'Reputation'
This large-flowered cactus dahlia exudes grandeur with enormous, deep magenta-pink blooms up to 17cm across, soaring to heights of 1.2m and spreading 40cm.
Dahlia 'Trelyn Kiwi'
Kiwi's compact cactus dahlia charms with pink-white blooms boasting a captivating yellow central flush. Perfect for pot growing.
Dahlia 'Pianella'
Suitable for container gardening, this semblance of crimson red with white tips packs a vibrant punch, with a petite stature of 90cm x 30cm.
Dahlia 'Marlene Joy'
Striking white flowers with pink tips and a yellow core up to 20cm in diameter adorn this cactus dahlia, reaching heights of 1.5m with a spread of 90cm.
Dahlia 'Ryecroft Zoe'
As a member of the Ryecroft series, this small-flowered cactus dahlia enthralls with peach-pink blooms graced by a yellow center, unfurling on 1.5m tall stems.
Dahlia 'Oakwood Goldcrest'
With its elusive lemon-yellow spiky blooms, this hard-to-find semi-cactus dahlia stands tall at 1.1m with a spread of 30cm.
Dahlia 'Ruskin's Bride'
Bearing peach-pink blooms, this small-flowered semi-cactus dahlia connects with its charm, displaying at heights of 1.2m with a spread of 30cm.
Dahlia 'Doris Day'
Little red blooms lay claim to this small-flowered cactus dahlia, standing at heights of 1.1m with a spread of 40cm.
Dahlia 'Frigoulet'
Showcasing arresting bi-colored red and white spiky petals, this semi-cactus variety is refined for exhibition purposes.
Dahlia 'Weston Miss'
This miniature-flowered semi-cactus type sparkles, with pale yellow petals that come alive in the dusk, reaching heights of 1.2m and spreading 40cm.
Dahlia 'Preference'
With its yellowy pink blooms, this small flowered semi-cactus dahlia caters to more conservative tastes, growing to 1.2m x 40cm.
Dahlia 'Reverend P. Holian'
expectancy from this immense-flowered semi-cactus dahlia, finding its ideal home in rich soil.
Dahlia 'Yellow Galator'
A medium-flowered cactus dahlia, boasting delightful, sunny yellow flowers, grows 1.2m high and 50cm wide.
Dahlia 'Hollyhill Quintessence'
A descendant of classic show flower 'Pink Jupiter', 'Hollyhill Quintessence' offers a justification for its name, exhibiting full semi-cactus blooms with white centers and pink exteriors.
Dahlia 'Kenora Sunset'
Glorious, bi-colored, crimson and yellow blooms vie for attention in this large-flowered cactus dahlia, growing 1.5m high and 50cm wide.
Unleashing the Magic of Cactus and Semi-Cactus Dahlias
Fostering a bountiful array of cactus and semi-cactus varieties demands a commitment to suitable environmental conditions. Growth requirements include:
- Solar Intake: Behold the power of the sun as dahlias benefit from at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Well-Draining Soil: Provide a haven for dahlia tubers by planting them in well-draining soil at a depth of approximately 4-6 inches.
- Proper Watering: Regulate watering, ensuring that the soil remains moist without becoming waterlogged.
- Support: Offer support for taller varieties to prevent them from tumbling over in windy conditions.
- Maintaining Temperature: Encourage dahlia growth by exposing them to temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C).
- Winter Care: In colder climates, protect these delicate blooms by carefully digging up and storing the tubers until spring.
In the quest for a successful harvest of unforgettable, spiky-bloomed dahlias, remember the importance of tailoring your approach to suit their unique needs.
Discover the charm of a multifaceted lifestyle as you tend to your cactus and semi-cactus dahlia garden, a harmonious blend of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden. As you cultivate these captivating blooms, indulge in a dose of entertainment by learning about their distinct characteristics and history. Delve into books dedicated to the art of dahlia cultivation while appreciating the food-and-drink rewards that come from harvesting these stunning flowers for arrangements indoors. In the evenings, bask in the beauty of your dangerous dahlias, a testament to your dedication and green thumb, all while immersed in the enchanting ambiance they create.
