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Tuber
Asteraceae
Dahlia Ball 'Viking' (1 tuber)
Dahlia × pinnata
Dahlia 'Viking' (Dahlia × pinnata 'Viking') is distinguished by its perfectly spherical, deep, velvety red flowers. Their short petals, slightly curved and arranged with great regularity, form a dense texture that immediately catches the eye. The dark green foliage accentuates the intensity of the blooms and supports straight stems, ideal for cutting. This fast-growing tender perennial reaches about 75 cm (30 in) in height and blooms profusely from July until the first frosts. Its elegant habit and dramatic color make it a remarkable focal point. Not hardy in Quebec, its tuber must be protected from frost in winter.
- Quantity
- 1 tuber
- Exposure
- Sun
- Life cycle
- Tender perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 8
Discover the plant
Common nameDahlia pompon ‘Viking’
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusDahlia
TypeTuber
Botanical nameDahlia × pinnata
‘Viking’ Pompon Dahlia (Dahlia) is distinguished by its perfectly spherical, deep, velvety red flowers. Its short, slightly curved petals, arranged with great regularity, form a dense texture that immediately catches the eye. The dark green foliage accentuates the intensity of the bloom and supports straight stems, ideal for cutting. This fast-growing, tender perennial reaches approximately 75 cm (30 in.) in height and flowers profusely from July until the first frosts. Its elegant habit and theatrical colour make it a remarkable focal point. Not hardy in Quebec, its tuber must be protected from frost in winter.
Plant the tuber in spring, when all risk of frost has passed, in a location receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Rich, loose, well-drained soil, enriched with compost or organic matter, will promote vigorous growth. Bury the tuber about 10 cm (4 in.) deep, with the "eyes" facing upwards, then water lightly until shoots appear. Afterwards, maintain even moisture without waterlogging the soil. Pinching young stems encourages branching, while removing spent flowers stimulates the production of new buds. In the autumn, dig up, dry, and store the tuber in a cool, frost-free place.
The 'Viking' dahlia is perfect for beds, sunny borders, flower beds, cut flower gardens, and large containers at least 35 cm (14 in.) in diameter. Its intense red creates striking contrasts with white cosmos, salvias, coneflowers, Verbena bonariensis, and ornamental grasses. Its long stems bear flowers with excellent vase life, sought after for sophisticated late summer and autumn bouquets. The petals can also be used as edible decorations when the plant is grown organically. Finally, its generous bloom helps attract pollinators throughout the growing season.
Planting guide
Plant well.Grow beautifully.
Planting depth
10 cm (4 in)
Best planting time
Spring
Propagation
Divide the tubers in spring when each section has at least one viable eye. This method ensures all characteristics of this variety are faithfully reproduced.
Growing method
Plant the tuber after the last frost in fertile, light, and well-drained soil. Bury it approximately 10 cm (4 in) deep with the "eyes" facing upwards. Water lightly until the first shoots appear, then gradually increase watering. Pinch back young shoots to encourage a bushier and more floriferous plant. Regularly remove spent flowers to prolong blooming until the first frosts. An organic mulch helps maintain consistent moisture throughout the season. Plant the tuber in spring, when all risk of frost has passed, in a location receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Rich, loose, and perfectly drained soil, enriched with compost or organic matter, will promote vigorous growth. Bury the tuber approximately 10 cm (4 in) deep, with the eyes facing upwards, then water lightly until shoots appear. Afterwards, maintain uniform moisture without waterlogging the soil. In the fall, dig up, dry, and store the tuber in a cool, frost-free place. The 'Viking' dahlia is perfect for mass plantings, sunny borders, flower beds, cut flower gardens, and large containers at least 35 cm (14 in) in diameter. Its long stems bear flowers with excellent vase life, sought after for sophisticated late summer and autumn bouquets.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to neutral
Minimum temperature
5 °C (41 °F)
Care level
Easy
Watering
At the start, keep the soil barely moist: tubers without shoots are sensitive to overwatering. When foliage develops, water more generously at the base to moisten the root zone without saturating it. Check the soil before each watering and adjust the frequency based on rain, heat, and wind. In pots, check the potting mix more often and empty the saucer. Reduce watering when growth stops at the end of the season.
Soil type
Opt for loose, well-drained soil, where water does not linger around roots or bulbs. Check drainage after rain: water should be able to leave the root zone. Work the soil when it is no longer waterlogged to avoid compaction. Adapt amendments to its actual texture. For container plants, use appropriate potting soil and a pot with drainage holes. Keep these openings clear and avoid any accumulation of water in the saucer.
Fertilization
Apply a potassium-rich fertilizer as soon as the first flower buds form to support abundant flowering. Reduce nitrogen applications, which primarily promote foliage development. Follow the dosage indicated on your fertilizer packaging and measure the quantity before applying. Take into account compost and other previous additions to avoid fertilizing the same plant twice.
Seasonal care
Plant in the spring once all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently. Choose a sunny spot, sheltered from strong winds, in fertile, well-drained soil. Arrange the tuberous roots with their crown and buds facing upwards, without breaking the fragile connections. Install a stake at planting if support will be needed, to avoid damaging the roots later. Water sparingly at the start, then adjust watering to foliage growth. Consistently soggy soil around the tubers should be avoided, especially before the first shoots appear. During the summer, water at the base when the soil dries out and tie the stems as needed with flexible ties. Regularly remove faded flowers to encourage the formation of new buds. For bouquets, choose fully open flowers and use a clean tool to make a clean cut. In the fall, plan for overwintering the tubers in a frost-free location: dahlias do not overwinter in the ground in Quebec. After vegetation dies back, carefully dig up the clump, allow its surface to dry, and store it in a cool, airy, frost-free space. Inspect it periodically to identify damaged parts. Over the seasons, observe new shoots, soil moisture, and the condition of the stems. A durable label helps locate the planting during its dormancy. Clean tools after cutting diseased parts and remove decaying debris around the plant's base.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
35 cm (14 in)
Container growing requires planning for the root volume and final height of the plant. Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a suitable potting mix. Leave enough space to respect the recommended depth and spacing, rather than crowding plants to immediately fill the pot. Place the container in the indicated exposure and regularly check the moisture level, especially in hot or windy weather. A pot is more exposed to temperature variations than planting in the ground. Therefore, plan for a wintering location from the start that is compatible with the plant's needs and your region's climate. Plant in spring when all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently. Choose a sunny spot, sheltered from strong winds, in fertile, well-drained soil. Arrange the tuberous roots with their crown and buds facing upwards, without breaking the fragile attachments. Install a stake at planting, if support will be needed, to avoid damaging the roots later. Water sparingly at the start, then adjust watering as foliage grows. Avoid constantly waterlogged soil around the tubers, especially before the first shoots appear. Plan to bring the storage organs indoors to protect them from Quebec's winter frost.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
75 cm (30 in)
Width / spread
30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in.)
Flower color
Deep red
Foliage color
Dark green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Growth rate
Quick
Bloom period
Abundant deep red pompom flowers from July until the first frosts. The flowers attract pollinators and have excellent vase life. Pompom Dahlia 'Viking' (Dahlia × pinnata 'Viking') is distinguished by its perfectly spherical, deep, velvety red flowers. The dark green foliage accentuates the intensity of the blooms and supports straight stems, ideal for cutting. Its generous flowering also helps attract pollinators throughout the summer.
Harvest
July to October. Harvest the flowers when fully open for excellent vase life. Continue to deadhead spent blooms to maintain abundant production.
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
To accompany Dahlia pompon 'Viking,' you can consider cosmos, zinnias, or ornamental salvias. Choose companion varieties based on their height, flowering period, and the colors you wish to combine. Above all, ensure that their exposure and water needs are suitable for the same location. Maintain sufficient distance so that leaves do not obscure young shoots and to allow easy access to each plant during maintenance. These pairings serve to create the garden's aesthetic; they do not guarantee protection against pests or diseases. Adjust the layout after observing one growing season.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
How to successfully plant Dahlia pompon 'Viking'?
Plant in spring after all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently. Choose a sunny spot, sheltered from strong winds, in fertile and well-drained soil. Arrange the tuberous roots with their crown and buds pointing upwards, without breaking the fragile attachments. Install a stake at the time of planting if support will be needed, to avoid damaging the roots later. Water sparingly at the start, then adjust the water supply according to foliage growth. Avoid constantly waterlogged soil around the tubers, especially before the first shoots appear.
What light should I provide for Dahlia pompon 'Viking'?
The recommended exposure is: full sun. Observe the light in your chosen spot in the morning and afternoon, as the shade from trees or buildings changes throughout the day. Also consider nearby plants: their foliage can obscure a young planting as it develops. If in a container, place the pot where you can move it if conditions become too hot or too shady. Suitable exposure must go hand in hand with proper soil and watering. If you move a plant started indoors to the outdoors, gradually accustom it to garden conditions to avoid too abrupt a transition for young leaves.
How to adjust watering?
Water according to the actual moisture content of the soil, taking into account rain, heat, and wind. Check below the surface before deciding to add more water: soil that is dry on the surface may still be moist at the root level. Direct water to the base of the plant and allow it to penetrate, without keeping the planting in saturated soil. Containers generally require more frequent checks because they dry out faster. Ensure their drainage holes remain clear and empty saucers that retain water. Also, adapt care to the plant's cycle: active growth and a resting period do not require the same water intake.
What to plan for container gardening?
Container gardening requires you to plan for the necessary root volume and the plant's final height. Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a suitable growing medium. Leave enough space to respect the recommended depth and spacing, rather than crowding plants to immediately fill the pot. Place the container in the indicated exposure and regularly check the moisture, especially in hot or windy weather. A pot is more exposed to temperature variations than a plant in the ground. Therefore, from the outset, plan for a wintering location compatible with the plant's needs and your region's climate.
What care should be planned after the growing season?
During the summer, water at the base when the soil dries out and tie up stems as needed with flexible ties. Regularly remove faded flowers to encourage new bud formation. For bouquets, choose fully open flowers and use a clean tool to make a clean cut. In the fall, plan for overwintering tubers in a frost-free environment: dahlias do not overwinter outdoors in Quebec. After the vegetation dies back, carefully dig up the clump, let its surface dry, and store it in a cool, airy, and frost-free place. Inspect it periodically for damaged parts.
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