Gardening tips for maintaining summer blooms and dahlias

Gardening experts provide guidance on maintaining vibrant summer blooms, specifically focusing on dahlias and balcony plants.

To revive dahlias that have stopped blooming in August, plant expert Marina Prokatena suggests addressing heat stress, improper watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Dahlias thrive in temperatures between 16–27 degrees Celsius. During extreme heat, deep watering at the base of the plant two to three times a week is recommended to avoid fungal diseases caused by wetting leaves. Additionally, removing spent flower heads is essential to prevent the plant from diverting energy toward seed production instead of new buds.

For balcony gardening, several resilient plant varieties are recommended for long-lasting color. Pelargoniums are noted for their ability to bloom for months if provided with ample sun and regular fertilization. Petunias, particularly the 'Surfinia' variety, offer abundant color but require frequent watering, especially during hot summer days. Calibrachoa is also highlighted as a hardy, low-maintenance alternative that produces dense cascades of small flowers through autumn.