Dahlia leaves

Hello can anybody advise as to what is happening to the leaves of my dahlia they seem to be turning black. They have been inside, then I put it outside when the forecast of frost had passed. Since then the leaves are going black. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

Hi,

When you put them outside did you give them any protection such as an overnight covering of fleece etc.

Though there might not have been a frost, the temperature difference between inside ( your house or greenhouse?) and outside may have been too much for them and caused the blackening.

As its now turned much warmer, just keep them outside in a sheltered spot away from strong cold winds and cover them with fleece or even newspaper if its forcast below 5c overnight.

Would leave those leafs alone, should be ok .

Give them another week in that sheltered position before planting out, if these warmer nights continue.

 

Thankyou, its my first time growing Dahlias. I will follow your guidance.

 

You do not mention the variety or height they are expected to grow to, but you will need to use a strong stake and wire/string etc for the taller ones as they can flop over if there are strong winds or simply too heavy with flowers ! Do keep dead heading them to keep them flowering.
We often grow the dwarf types, under 2ft, which self support.

 

It's Cafe au Lait, think it will be on the larger size. I will stake as well.