Few flowers seem to catch that late-summer-into-early-fall shimmer quite like a dahlia. In an extraordinary nod to the ever-dynamic wonders of nature, the subtle hues of dahlias – throwing royal to lavender purples, and coral to salmon — often do shift within their growing season. A red will dahlia will deepen to amplify the cerulean blue, robin-egg blue of an autumn sky. An orange dahlia bloom will wake up the no longer new-made soft green grass to remind that the deeper green is lovely just the same. (Your eyes are not playing tricks.)
Together, dahlias join a crescendo of choral colors that have stored their most extravagant expressions to align with the palette of autumn. Like an unexpected fall raspberry, dahlias are the beginning of a kiss goodbye to summer – as the evenings cool and things begin to settle.
Dahlia growers want to achieve just this sort of floral bounty. But how? Here are some basic “rules.” (And please, remember that at Bear Creek Farm, “rules” are more like guidelines with which to experiment and play. We all learn by doing. I am here to remind you that the best laid plans may not go as planned, but that the lessons learned may lead you to garden paths you’d never otherwise have discovered about nature, and ones own place within it.)
Is Bone Meal Good for Dahlias? A Comprehensive Guide
Dahlias are one of the most beloved flowers for late summer and fall gardens, Their vibrant colors and gorgeous flower shapes add tremendous visual interest at a time when many other blooms have faded,
As a dahlia enthusiast, I’m always seeking ways to maximize the growth and flowering of these beautiful plants. One question I often get asked by fellow gardeners is whether bone meal makes a good fertilizer for dahlias.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take an in-depth look at using bone meal for dahlias We’ll cover what bone meal is, its benefits and potential drawbacks, when and how to apply it, and alternatives to bone meal My goal is to provide a thorough overview of the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about using bone meal in your dahlia garden.
What is Bone Meal?
Bone meal is an organic fertilizer made from ground animal bones, usually from cows, pigs, sheep, fish, or poultry. The bones are steam-cooked and pulverized into a fine powder. This powder is rich in the key nutrients phosphorus, calcium, and nitrogen.
The phosphorus content of bone meal ranges from 12-16%, making it an excellent source of this nutrient. Phosphorus is vital for healthy root growth and flower development. Calcium levels range from 20-30%, and nitrogen content is typically 1-4%.
Due to its high phosphorus levels, bone meal is known as a “bloom booster” fertilizer. The nitrogen and calcium also benefit plants in various ways. When worked into the soil, the nutrients in bone meal are slowly released over a period of 2-3 months.
Benefits of Using Bone Meal for Dahlias
There are some clear benefits that make bone meal an appealing choice as a dahlia fertilizer:
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Provides phosphorus for root and flower growth – The abundant phosphorus in bone meal is the key reason it’s good for dahlias. Phosphorus stimulates root development and flower production.
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Improves soil structure – The granular texture of bone meal can help lighten heavy, compacted soils. It adds porosity and improves drainage and aeration.
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Attracts earthworms – Worms are drawn to the nutrients and organic matter in bone meal. Their tunneling aerates soil further.
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Deters slugs and snails – Some gardeners find bone meal repels mollusks that can damage dahlias. The gritty texture could be a deterrent.
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Slow, steady nutrient release – Unlike synthetic quick-release fertilizers, bone meal breaks down slowly over months to nourish plants.
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Simple to apply – Bone meal is easy to sprinkle into planting holes or broadcast across beds as needed.
Potential Drawbacks of Bone Meal for Dahlias
Despite the benefits, there are also a few potential disadvantages when using bone meal as a dahlia fertilizer:
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Can burn plants if overapplied – Too much bone meal can damage dahlia’s roots and leaves. Follow package rates carefully.
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Lacks other key nutrients – Bone meal only provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium. Dahlias also need potassium, magnesium, and micronutrients.
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Attracts dogs, wildlife – The scent and flavor of bone meal may tempt neighborhood dogs, coyotes, bears, etc. to dig up treated garden areas.
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Limited availability – Bone meal can be harder to source locally than common synthetic fertilizers. It’s often ordered online.
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Risk of transmitting diseases – There is a very minimal chance of contaminated bone meal spreading livestock diseases, though this is uncommon with commercial products.
When and How to Apply Bone Meal to Dahlias
Proper timing and method of application are key to getting the most benefit from bone meal as a dahlia fertilizer. Here are some tips:
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Apply bone meal at planting time – Mix 1-2 tablespoons per dahlia tuber into the bottom of planting holes before placing the tubers. This puts phosphorus right within reach of developing roots.
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Sprinkle lightly across beds early on – In spring, sprinkle up to 1/2 cup of bone meal per square foot over the entire dahlia bed and water in gently.
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Side dress around plants later in season – When buds appear, lightly work bone meal into the top few inches of soil around each plant.
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Follow package directions – Carefully adhere to application rates on the bone meal package to avoid overfertilizing. More is not better.
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Combine with compost or manure – Mixing in some compost provides a broader spectrum of nutrients. Manure adds nutrition from a different organic source.
Alternatives to Bone Meal for Dahlias
If you choose not to use bone meal or want to experiment with other options, some alternatives to provide phosphorus and well-rounded nutrition for dahlias include:
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Rock phosphate – A naturally mined mineral product that also supplies phosphorus.
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Worm castings – An excellent broad-spectrum organic fertilizer full of nutrients, including phosphorus.
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Fish bone meal – Made from fish rather than land animal bones; suitable for vegan gardeners.
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Manure compost – Provides a wide range of nutrients from composted animal manure.
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All-purpose organic fertilizer – Look for blends with multiple nutrient sources like bone, rock phosphate, kelp, etc.
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Synthetic fertilizer – Balanced synthetic fertilizers (ex: 10-10-10) supply key nutrients, though organics are preferable.
The Verdict: Is Bone Meal Good for Dahlias?
However, bone meal should not be considered a stand-alone complete fertilizer. It’s best combined with additional organic materials like compost or manure to provide a full spectrum of nutrients. Following packaging directions carefully to avoid overapplication is also crucial.
The choice of whether to use bone meal ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what materials are readily available in your area. With some judicious testing in your own garden conditions, you can see if bone meal earns a spot in your dahlia fertilizing regimen or if you prefer an alternative fertilizer option. Either way, a little TLC goes a long way in coaxing those gorgeous blooms from your dahlias season after season.
Where should I plant my Dahlias?
- Dahlias need generous sun exposure.
- Choose a place in your garden that receives 6 to 8 hours of sun a day.
- If you live in a very hot climate, a little afternoon shade can’t hurt.
- If you’re struggling to find a patch of land that gets full sun, try the lower growing or dwarf dahlias.
How do I plant my dahlias?
- *Pro-Tip* DO NOT OVER-WATER. As you plan your dahlia bed, always keep in mind that over-watering is one of the main reasons dahlias fail to bloom.
- Trimming. If your tubers have any sprouts attached to them that are longer than 1”, carefully trim them back to just 1”.
- Spacing. Plant your tubers sideways with the growing eye facing up in holes that are 6 inches deep, and 18-24 inches apart, depending on the size (how big) the varietal you’re planting. You will want to allow sufficient space for healthy growth.
- Staking. If you do wish to stake, insert your garden stakes right next to each tuber. Any kind of stake is fine (metal, wood, plastic etc.). It is best to stake before they sprout.
- Use some bone meal. Go ahead and throw in a small handful of bone meal—it’s a great fertilizer and source of phosphorus and protein. (That said, be careful if you have pets, as dogs may dig it up.)
- Don’t cover your garden bed. Gardeners are often taught to use mulch or bark dust. This won’t work well for dahlias because the sun keeps the soil nice and warm. However, please note exceptions for very southern states.
- Add snail and slug bait. For specific recommendations, ask a knowledgeable local nursery for guidance. Iron phosphate is an excellent, organic alternative, safe for children and pets.
- Know your climate. Unless you live in a hot climate, you don’t need to start watering until after your tubers have sprouted, which will be in 3 to 10 weeks. In hot climates, soil should be slightly damp at planting to get your tubers going.
Understanding Blood Meal & Bone Meal – Straight to the Point
FAQ
How much bone meal for dahlias?
Add 1 Tbsp (up to a small handful) per hole for dahlia tubers. Mix thoroughly into soil.
What is the best fertilizer for dahlias?
We recommend a low nitrogen fertilizer, usually referred to as a bloom food.Jul 29, 2024
Do dahlias like blood and bone?
Plant your dahlia tubers so that the ‘crown’ is at a depth of 8cm with a spacing of 50cm apart (for tall types) or 20cm apart (for mini types.) Sprinkle with some Blood and Bone and water in well. Protect from snails and slugs while foliage is emerging.
What plants benefit most from bone meal?
Bone meal is a great fertiliser for a few key reasons: The first is that it’s a great source of Phosphorus which is used by new plants to produce strong roots and so is great for root vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrot and parsnip.
Is bone meal good for dahlias?
Yes, Bone Meal is good for dahlias- the calcium and phosphorous found within will promote a strong root system and healthy flower production. Mix it into the soil at time of planting your dahlia tubers. When fertilizing dahlias, seek out fertilizer with low nitrogen and higher amounts of phosphorous and potassium.
What foods promote bone healing and growth?
Milk and yogurts – are good sources of calcium, vitamin D and protein. Broccoli – full of vitamin C and vitamin K. Oranges – contains vitamin C, an important antioxidant that properly synthesizes collagen and helps with healing. Green vegetables – are rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, which help the body fight free radicals that delay bone healing. Nuts and seeds – rich in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Beans – Abundant in calcium and phosphorus. Cereals – amaranth, quinoa and brown rice contain calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Millet, barley, wheat and rye contain doses of vitamin A, which is beneficial for calcium absorption and thus strong bones.
Is bone meal a good fertilizer for dahlias?
Excessive amounts of phosphorus can lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil and harm the environment. Therefore, it is recommended to use bone meal sparingly and only as needed. In conclusion, bone meal can be a beneficial fertilizer for dahlias when used in the proper dosage.
How much bone meal should a dahlia plant eat?
The recommended dosage of bone meal for dahlia plants is generally 1-2 tablespoons per plant, depending on the size of the plant. If you are planting a new dahlia tuber or bulb, you can mix a small amount of bone meal into the planting hole to give the plant a good start.
How do you apply bone meal to dahlias?
To apply bone meal to your dahlias, follow these simple steps: Prepare the soil: Before planting your dahlias, mix bone meal into the soil. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your dahlia plant. Add a tablespoon or two of bone meal to the hole and mix it well with the soil.
Are dahlia plants healthy?
Dahlia plants are known for their beautiful flowers and lush foliage. In order to keep your dahlia plants healthy and thriving, it is important to provide them with the right nutrients. One beneficial nutrient for dahlia plants is bone meal, which provides a natural source of phosphorus and calcium.