Troubleshooting
Dahlia 'Ace Summer Sunset' problems — and how to fix them
Dahlia 'Ace Summer Sunset' (Dahlia 'Ace Summer Sunset') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Tall stems need staking
The large blooms on tall stems are prone to wind damage and flopping. Stake plants early and tie in as they grow to keep stems upright.
Slugs, earwigs and aphids
Slugs graze young shoots, earwigs chew the spiky petals, and aphids mass on buds. Use barriers, earwig traps, and treat aphids promptly.
Tuber rot in storage
Overwintered tubers rot if stored damp or frozen. Lift after the first frost, dry, and store cool, dark and barely moist in cold zones.
Powdery mildew late season
Mildew whitens foliage in damp, crowded plantings towards autumn. Space plants, ensure airflow, and water at the base.
Prevent dahlia 'ace summer sunset' problems before they start
Most dahlia 'ace summer sunset' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for the species overview? Dahlia — the full care guide.
Dahlia 'Ace Summer Sunset' problems — FAQ
Why is my dahlia 'ace summer sunset' tall stems need staking?
The large blooms on tall stems are prone to wind damage and flopping. Stake plants early and tie in as they grow to keep stems upright.
Why is my dahlia 'ace summer sunset' slugs, earwigs and aphids?
Slugs graze young shoots, earwigs chew the spiky petals, and aphids mass on buds. Use barriers, earwig traps, and treat aphids promptly.
Why is my dahlia 'ace summer sunset' tuber rot in storage?
Overwintered tubers rot if stored damp or frozen. Lift after the first frost, dry, and store cool, dark and barely moist in cold zones.
Why is my dahlia 'ace summer sunset' powdery mildew late season?
Mildew whitens foliage in damp, crowded plantings towards autumn. Space plants, ensure airflow, and water at the base.