In my experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found that dahlias generally do not prefer overhead watering. While they can tolerate it, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Dahlias are prone to certain diseases, and overhead watering can create a moist environment on the leaves and stems, which can promote the growth of these diseases. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when it comes to watering your dahlias.
For someone who is growing just a few dahlias, careful hand-watering may suffice. This method allows you to control the amount of water and avoid getting the foliage too wet. By using a watering can or hose with a nozzle, you can direct the water to the base of the plants, ensuring that the roots receive adequate moisture without unnecessarily wetting the leaves and stems.
On the other hand, if you are a larger-scale dahlia enthusiast or have a significant number of dahlias in your garden, you may find it more efficient to use a drip-irrigation system. This system delivers water directly to the root zone of the plants, minimizing water waste and reducing the risk of leaf and stem diseases. Drip irrigation can be set up with a timer, allowing for consistent and controlled watering, which is particularly beneficial during hot and dry periods.
Personally, I have found that using a drip-irrigation system for my dahlias has been highly effective. It saves me time and effort by automatically providing water to the plants at the root level, without the need for manual watering. Additionally, the controlled and targeted watering helps to prevent overwatering and keeps the foliage relatively dry, reducing the risk of disease.
To summarize, while dahlias can tolerate overhead watering, it is generally not recommended due to the potential for promoting leaf and stem diseases. For small-scale dahlia growers, careful hand-watering can be sufficient. However, for larger gardens or enthusiasts, investing in a simple drip-irrigation system can offer efficiency and ensure the plants receive the necessary moisture without creating an overly damp environment that can lead to disease.
