Smokey

To plant Smokey dahlias, follow these steps:

• Choose a planting location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
• Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 4-5 inches and adding compost or organic matter.
• Plant the tubers in the soil with the "eyes" facing up and the top of the tuber about 2-3 inches below the surface.
• Water the tubers well after planting and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• As the plants grow, stake them to support their height and prevent them from falling over.
• Fertilize the plants every 2-4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Deadhead the spent blooms regularly to encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Smokey dahlias may need to be lifted and stored in a cool, dry place over the winter in areas with freezing temperatures.

Smokey dahlias, like most dahlia varieties, are typically planted in the spring once the soil has warmed up and the danger of frost has passed. In most regions, this is usually between late April and early June, depending on the local climate. In areas with a warmer climate (such as USDA zone 8 or higher), it is possible to plant the dahlia tubers earlier in the season.

It's important to wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15°C) to ensure successful growth and development of the tubers. Smokey dahlias prefer well-draining soil and full sunlight, so it's important to choose a planting location that meets these requirements. With proper care and maintenance, Smokey dahlias can bloom from mid-summer through fall, adding a splash of color to any garden or landscape.

Smokey dahlias benefit from a balanced fertilizer that provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A good fertilizer for Smokey dahlias should have a higher phosphorus content to promote root and flower growth. A ratio of 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 is ideal.

However, it is also essential to consider the soil pH as dahlias prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Before applying any fertilizer, it is crucial to test the soil to determine its nutrient content and adjust the fertilizer accordingly. Additionally, it is recommended to apply fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

Yes, you need to dig up Smokey dahlias at the end of the blooming season if you live in a region where the temperature drops below freezing in winter. Dahlias are not cold hardy, and leaving them in the ground can cause the tubers to rot or freeze, killing the plant.

Digging up the tubers and storing them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season will ensure that they remain healthy and ready for planting.

However, if you live in a region with mild winters where the temperature doesn't drop below freezing, you can leave them in the ground and cut back the foliage. These are areas with USDA climate zones 8 or higher.