Troubleshooting
Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover' problems — and how to fix them
Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover' (Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover') 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.
Powdery mildew
White powdery coating on leaves and stems, especially in dry summers. Ensure good airflow; treat with potassium bicarbonate or fungicide.
Aphids
Congregate on new growth and can spread viruses. Control with insecticidal soap spray or physical removal; check plants weekly.
Earwigs
Ragged holes in petals are a common sign. Place rolled-up newspaper or straw-filled pots nearby as earwig traps.
Tuber rot in storage
Occurs when tubers are stored damp. Allow tubers to dry after lifting, label them, and pack in barely moist coir in a cool, frost-free location.
Virus (Dahlia mosaic)
Causes yellow mottling and stunted growth. Spread by aphids; remove infected plants and control aphids promptly.
Prevent dahlia 'bishop of dover' problems before they start
Most dahlia 'bishop of dover' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Dahlia 'Bishop of Dover' problems — FAQ
Why is my dahlia 'bishop of dover' powdery mildew?
White powdery coating on leaves and stems, especially in dry summers. Ensure good airflow; treat with potassium bicarbonate or fungicide.
Why is my dahlia 'bishop of dover' aphids?
Congregate on new growth and can spread viruses. Control with insecticidal soap spray or physical removal; check plants weekly.
Why is my dahlia 'bishop of dover' earwigs?
Ragged holes in petals are a common sign. Place rolled-up newspaper or straw-filled pots nearby as earwig traps.
Why is my dahlia 'bishop of dover' tuber rot in storage?
Occurs when tubers are stored damp. Allow tubers to dry after lifting, label them, and pack in barely moist coir in a cool, frost-free location.
Why is my dahlia 'bishop of dover' virus (dahlia mosaic)?
Causes yellow mottling and stunted growth. Spread by aphids; remove infected plants and control aphids promptly.