Troubleshooting
Dahlia 'Ginger Snap' problems — and how to fix them
Dahlia 'Ginger Snap' (Dahlia 'Ginger Snap') 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.
Slugs and snails on young shoots
Emerging dahlia shoots are a magnet for slugs and snails. Protect new growth with barriers or traps, especially in damp spring weather.
Earwigs and aphids on blooms
Earwigs chew petals and aphids cluster on buds. Trap earwigs in straw-filled pots and wash off or treat aphid colonies early.
Tuber rot in cold, wet storage
Overwintered tubers rot if stored damp or frozen. Lift after first frost, dry, and store cool, dark and just barely moist in zone 7 and colder.
Powdery mildew on foliage
Late-season mildew coats leaves in damp, crowded conditions. Space plants, water at the base, and improve airflow.
Prevent dahlia 'ginger snap' problems before they start
Most dahlia 'ginger snap' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for the species overview? Dahlia — the full care guide.
Dahlia 'Ginger Snap' problems — FAQ
Why is my dahlia 'ginger snap' slugs and snails on young shoots?
Emerging dahlia shoots are a magnet for slugs and snails. Protect new growth with barriers or traps, especially in damp spring weather.
Why is my dahlia 'ginger snap' earwigs and aphids on blooms?
Earwigs chew petals and aphids cluster on buds. Trap earwigs in straw-filled pots and wash off or treat aphid colonies early.
Why is my dahlia 'ginger snap' tuber rot in cold, wet storage?
Overwintered tubers rot if stored damp or frozen. Lift after first frost, dry, and store cool, dark and just barely moist in zone 7 and colder.
Why is my dahlia 'ginger snap' powdery mildew on foliage?
Late-season mildew coats leaves in damp, crowded conditions. Space plants, water at the base, and improve airflow.