Overwintering guide
How to overwinter dahlia 'cafe au lait'
Winter watering
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
The mistake that kills dahlia 'cafe au lait' in winter
Leaving dahlia 'cafe au lait' in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.
More dahlia 'cafe au lait' care
Overwintering dahlia 'cafe au lait' — FAQ
Does dahlia 'cafe au lait' need to come indoors for winter?
Dahlia 'Cafe au Lait' is hardy to roughly USDA zone 8 — winter lows around -12°C. That means it survives outside in mild areas, but wants shelter in a hard winter. Dahlia 'Cafe au Lait' can stay outside over winter in most areas, but appreciates some protection in a cold snap. Mulch generously over the root zone, move containers against a sheltered wall (pots freeze far harder than open ground), and have horticultural fleece ready for the worst nights. The roots are what you are protecting — top growth can be sacrificed and regrown.
When should I move dahlia 'cafe au lait' for winter?
Mulch and move pots into shelter in late autumn, before the first hard frosts.
How often should I water dahlia 'cafe au lait' in winter?
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
What kills dahlia 'cafe au lait' over winter?
Leaving dahlia 'cafe au lait' in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.