How to Grow and Care for Mango Madness Dahlia

The Mango Madness dahlia brings a tropical feel to gardens with its large, decorative flowers. This variety’s blooms command attention with a dynamic coloration that shifts from peachy-oranges to golden hues, making it a bold choice for garden beds and floral arrangements. The plant’s foliage provides a rich backdrop that accentuates the warm tones of its flowers.

Mango Madness Dahlia Characteristics

This dahlia is a Dinnerplate or Decorative type, recognized for its large blossoms. The flowers reach diameters between 8 and 10 inches and display a blend of mango, peach, and coral-pink shades. The plant grows to a height of 100 to 120 centimeters (about 40 to 48 inches), making it suitable for the back of borders where it can add structure. Its sturdy stems support the large flowers, which bloom from mid-summer until the first frost.

Planting Instructions

The ideal time to plant tubers is in the spring, after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to approximately 60°F. Dahlias require a location that receives full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot sheltered from strong winds is also beneficial to protect the tall stems.

The soil must be fertile and well-draining to prevent the tubers from rotting. Amending heavy clay soil with compost or sand can improve its structure and drainage. Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep and place the tuber horizontally with the “eye,” or growing point, facing upward. Space tubers 18 to 24 inches apart to ensure good air circulation. Do not water the tuber immediately after planting; wait until the first green shoots emerge from the soil.

Seasonal Care Guide

Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Watering at the soil level is preferable, as it keeps the foliage dry and helps prevent fungal diseases. Fertilize every three to four weeks using a formula that is low in nitrogen and higher in phosphorus and potassium, such as a 5-10-10 blend, to promote blooms.

Because Mango Madness dahlias grow tall, providing support is necessary to prevent the stems from breaking. Place a sturdy stake in the ground near the tuber at planting time to avoid damaging the root system. As the plant grows, loosely tie the main stem to the stake. To encourage a bushier plant with more flowers, you can pinch off the central growing tip when the plant is about one foot tall.

Overwintering Dahlia Tubers

In USDA zones 7 and below, dahlia tubers must be dug up and stored indoors for the winter. This process should begin after the first hard frost has blackened the plant’s foliage, which signals the tuber to prepare for dormancy. Allow the tubers to remain in the ground for one to two weeks after the frost to help toughen their skin for storage.

To lift the tubers, cut the stalks down to a few inches above the ground. Dig around the plant with a garden fork, starting far enough from the stem to avoid piercing the tubers. Gently lift the clump and brush off any excess dirt. Allow the tubers to dry for a few days in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area before packing them in a material like peat moss or vermiculite. Store the container in a location that remains cool, dark, and frost-free, with temperatures between 40 and 50°F.