2022 was a huge year of growth for me and my farm. I’ll keep this brief but wanted you to know more about all the changes that have been underway. Thank you for “walking the rows with me,” so to speak, whether you purchased tubers or cut flowers or have been a friendly supporter from afar.
Dahlias are a true love of mine and it’s my nature to strive for excellence so read on to find out what I’m working on for you!
I invested heavily in several new areas in 2022. These investments paid off and 2023 is launching stronger as a result.
BENEFICIAL INSECTS
You know my commitment to environmental stewardship (I love my tiny friends!) In an effort to avoid sprays (even organic ones like Neem oil can affect pollinators) - I dove in to learn about beneficial insects and how integrated pest management practices (IPM) can help fight pests in a more natural way.
New tiny friends like beneficial nematodes, minute pirate bugs, and others came to live on my farm…and my plants were the healthiest they’ve ever been. This was a significant investment; I am proud to say that I’m always looking for new pathways to gorgeous flowers that do not come at a negative cost to our ecosystem.
Two minute pirate bugs eating an aphid. - Photo courtesy of Saul Alba
IDENTIFYING VIRUS/CULLING
My other major area of improvement is identifying and testing for several plant viruses that are prevalent in dahlias. I’ve learned to identify plant issues visually, but also invested in testing strips to identify asymptomatic varieties. (These function similarly to covid tests for humans).
Dahlia varieties that were positive for virus were immediately culled. I am committed to only offering the healthiest tubers to you, to the best of my ability. It’s important to realize that viruses float around the plant world the same way they spread amongst humans - we will never be 100% clear - but I’ve taken a huge step forward in mitigating virus spread.
Pest management and virus identification/best practices are two areas I’m planning to tell you more about in upcoming months. I hope that education in these areas can help you grow a more resilient garden too!
I’d love to hear any questions or topics that are on your mind as we embark on dahlia season 2023. Please leave a comment or send me a message!