Dahlia Garden Pride Seeds

Growing Dahlias from Seed in Jordan

Dahlia variabilis Garden Pride

1. About the Seeds and Plants

Dahlia variabilis Garden Pride is a summer-flowering ornamental perennial commonly grown as an annual. Its large, multicoloured flowers enhance gardens. Dahlias are known for abundant blooms, bright colours and the ease of growing them from seed compared with tuber-grown varieties.

Benefits of Growing Dahlias

Continuous flowering throughout the season with good care. Varied flower colours and shapes suit gardens and vases. Suitable for beds, pots and open gardens. Tolerates moderate heat but needs frost protection.

2. Detailed Instructions for Growing Dahlias from Seed

A. Soil Preparation: 10 Days Before Planting

• Dahlias need light, well-drained soil, such as sandy clay soil or a peat-rich growing medium.
• A soil pH of 6-7 is preferred for optimal nutrient uptake.
• Add 3-5 kg of organic fertilizer per square metre to improve soil fertility.
• Cultivate and aerate the soil to ensure good drainage and prevent root rot.

B. Gardening Tools and Supplies

• A garden spade for soil preparation.
• High-quality Garden Pride dahlia seeds.
• A hand sprayer or drip irrigation system.
• Pruning shears to remove faded flowers and stimulate new blooms.

C. Sowing in Jordan: Months 2-4 and 8-10

• Dahlias can be sown in late winter and early spring (February-April), or at the end of summer (August-October).
• Scatter seeds on the soil surface and cover with a very light layer of soil, approximately 0.5 cm.
• Space plants 30-40 cm apart for good airflow and healthy growth.
• Water with a fine mist to maintain even moisture without waterlogging.

D. Germination: 7-14 Days After Sowing

• Seeds require a temperature of 18-22°C for successful germination.
• Keep the soil moist without flooding it to prevent root rot.
• After seedlings emerge, gradually reduce watering to encourage deeper roots.

E. Plant Care: Months 1-6

Watering: water dahlias moderately every 2-3 days, avoiding excess water that can cause root rot. Feeding: use balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer, as detailed below. Pruning: remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms and bushier growth. Light: provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for strong, abundant flowers.

F. Flowering: Months 2-10

• Dahlias begin flowering 8-10 weeks after sowing.
• Flowering continues for a long period, especially with appropriate feeding and watering.

3. Fertilizer Program: NPK 20-20-20

Base Fertilization: 10 Days Before Planting

• Add 3-5 kg of organic fertilizer per square metre to improve soil fertility.

Feeding During Growth

• Month 1: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre after seedlings emerge.
• Month 2: apply 15 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to encourage vegetative growth.
• Month 3: apply 20 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to support abundant flowering.
• Months 4-6: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 every two weeks to maintain continuous flowering.

4. Common Dahlia Pests and Their Control

• Aphids cause distorted leaves and weak growth. Control: spray horticultural soap or Actara insecticide.
• Red spider mites cause yellowing and wilting leaves. Control: use neem oil or abamectin.
• Powdery mildew appears as white patches on leaves. Control: use Score or Topaz fungicide.
• Slugs and snails feed on young leaves. Control: use a slug and snail bait such as metaldehyde.
• Root rot results from overwatering. Improve soil drainage and reduce watering.

5. Additional Tips for Growing Dahlias in Jordan

Sow from February to April (2-4) or August to October (8-10) for healthy growth. Dahlias need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid overwatering: their roots are very sensitive to excess moisture. Grow in pots or directly in the garden, ensuring good drainage. Regularly remove faded flowers to prolong flowering and stimulate new blooms.

Summary

Dahlias are beautiful home-garden ornamentals with large flowers in a variety of colours. Balanced watering, suitable 20-20-20 feeding and removal of faded flowers can provide abundant, long-lasting blooms that enhance a garden or balcony.