Troubleshooting
Dahlia 'Rip City' problems — and how to fix them
Dahlia 'Rip City' (Dahlia 'Rip City') 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.
Botrytis on blooms
Dense cactus petals trap moisture; cut spent flowers promptly and avoid wetting blooms.
Powdery mildew
Common on leaves late season; apply a preventative fungicide from midsummer and improve spacing.
Staking
Tall plants with heavy blooms must be staked — use a stout cane and tie in every 30 cm.
Aphids
Attack soft growing tips especially early in the season; control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Tuber rot in storage
Dry tubers thoroughly after lifting, dust with sulphur powder, and store in cool dry conditions to prevent rot.
Prevent dahlia 'rip city' problems before they start
Most dahlia 'rip city' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Dahlia 'Rip City' problems — FAQ
Why is my dahlia 'rip city' botrytis on blooms?
Dense cactus petals trap moisture; cut spent flowers promptly and avoid wetting blooms.
Why is my dahlia 'rip city' powdery mildew?
Common on leaves late season; apply a preventative fungicide from midsummer and improve spacing.
Why is my dahlia 'rip city' staking?
Tall plants with heavy blooms must be staked — use a stout cane and tie in every 30 cm.
Why is my dahlia 'rip city' aphids?
Attack soft growing tips especially early in the season; control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Why is my dahlia 'rip city' tuber rot in storage?
Dry tubers thoroughly after lifting, dust with sulphur powder, and store in cool dry conditions to prevent rot.