My year in 2014

Well 2014 for my dahlias had its ups and downs. Ups include trying out new varieties and colors, as well as entering in my first County Fair! The downs were that of a spider mite apocalypse that decimated my plants half- way through the growing season.

Here are some pre-apocalypse photos of my dahlias from 2014

These are Wannabee Dahlias. One of my favorites for 2014.

From Left to Right, Tutti Frutti, Matchmaker, and Velda Inez

 Hulins Carnival, Hillcrest Jonathan and Emory Paul.

My first place Dahlia at the County Fair, the Gloriosa!

 

Elizabeth Jean and Bumble Rumble and below is a bouquet of Elizabeth Jean

Those are the best photos I have of my dahlias for 2014.


As far as the Spider Mite apocalypse that totally destroyed my dahlia plants, it first started out as a very small infestation. After doing many hours of research online on how to rid my garden of those nasty little things, I decided to go green with purchasing 1,500, yes 1,500, ladybugs. With the several articles I read they should have done the trick. Well. They. Didn't. The mites continued to multiply and soon took over my entire garden (insert sad face here). Soon my plants started to get powdery mildew as well. All 1,500 of my ladybugs decided to fly the coop, literally. There were none left in sight.

I decided to go the chemical route. I tried at least 3 different types of Mite killing products. None worked. NONE!!! Until...... I found a wonderful product that was neem-oil based. It was called Bon neem. Very affordable and worked miracles! Unfortunately it was way too late in the season and my plants never made a comeback. I plan on using this product in 2015 at the first sight of Spider mites. AND it helps with many other pests and also powdery mildew, hooray!!! So 2015 should be a fantastic year for me and my dahlias. Stay tuned for details and a preview of my new varieties!