What’s killing my dahlias?

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by P4ul_17, Aug 10, 2019.

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  1. P4ul_17

    P4ul_17 Apprentice Gardener

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    81429FA2-12E8-4038-BBB0-C3A0AB0F7BCC.jpeg I have four dahlias in my border, but recently the numerous buds have started rotting before flowering - see pictures. The buds form, but never open.
    One plant had lots of black aphid looking bugs (?), but it’s occurring on plants with no bugs present.
    I feed with feed suitable for dahlias.
    Last year, a different variety of dahlia flourished in this spot.

    No idea why they’re dying. Any advice is appreciated.
     

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  2. pete

    pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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    I think that the one you are holding is possibly a bud that has finished flowering,the other two in the picture are buds yet to open.:smile:
     
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    • P4ul_17

      P4ul_17 Apprentice Gardener

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      Thanks Pete, but I tend it and dead head regularly (every day almost), so I know this one didn’t flower. There are many that bud and go mouldy, or so it seems.
       
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      • pete

        pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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        Well cant really think what is going on then:scratch:
        Has it been really wet where you are?
         
      • Verdun

        Verdun Passionate gardener

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        The only thing, in that case, is a pest P4ul_17. Earwigs are notorious dahlia pests but
        I wonder if a caterpillar is present. Have you had a look for pests?:)
         
      • Selleri

        Selleri Koala

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        The leaves look healthy so it could be something going on in the roots. Too wet perhaps? Have they been waterlogged recently? If you have a little dig around, are there any pests such as Vine Weevil grubs around?

        The dark foliage looks great, what kind of Dahlia is it?
         
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        • pete

          pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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          I've looked at my dahlias today and I'm having second thoughts.
          I've only got three, and they are a different type to those in the picture, but I'm just wondering if those pointed buds are seed heads as well?

          The new unopened buds on mine are a totally different shape.

          Dead flower head.
          DSC_0232.JPG
          New flower bud.
          DSC_0233.JPG
           
        • P4ul_17

          P4ul_17 Apprentice Gardener

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          Hi all,
          Thank you all for the responses and @pete , thank you for the files. I took samples to the garden centre and left embarrassingly convinced that they were indeed old flowers. I'll put it down to a learning experience. I didn't realise that the flowers and buds came and went so quickly.

          @Selleri , they are a type called Happy Single. First time we've grown them this year and they're brilliant. So many flowers... once you deadhead correctly.
           
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