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What’s wrong with this dahlia?

arransrUWvJX3JKarransrUWvJX3JK Posts: 6
in Problem solving
I bought this dahlia in a garden centre recently and it was looking fine until a couple days ago, but now the leaves have all flopped and are turning yellow. I’ve watered regularly so was wondering what was wrong with it.

Posts

  • didywdidyw Posts: 3,573
    I would try giving it a feed.
    Gardening in East Suffolk on dry sandy soil.
  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 17,618
    Tip it out of the pot and see if the root ball is soaked through. The latest composts are shrinking from the pot and water goes round the rootball.  If you don't want to risk tipping it, Dunk it in a larger bucket full of water. If it bubbles, it was dry.

  • Pete.8Pete.8 Posts: 11,340
    If it's been the the strong sun today that's the likely cause - all of mine in the garden are flopping today. They'll perk up when the sun goes down.

    Does the pot feel heavy or light?
    Both over watering and under watering can cause droopy leaves.

    Most shop/nursery bought pot plants have slow-release feed in the compost that can last between 6 weeks and 3 months.
    The yellowing could be either due to being hungry, or more likely over watering or under watering both of which will stop your plant taking up nitrogen and cause pale or yellowing leaves.

    Billericay - Essex

    Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit.
    Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
  • FireFire Posts: 19,096
    I would just give the plant time to settle in. There could be some wild temp swings at the moment. It may have come from cossetted circs. I agree but giving it a good dunk for 20 mins and then letting it full drain. I wouldn't start to feed until it's looking good and happy.
  • PosyPosy Posts: 3,601
    No, don't feed it or dig it up! If you can, move it into a place where it gets some shade during the hottest time of the day. It can't take up enough water fast enough and needs time to settle in. Water it well but don't drown it and it should be fine.
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