Dahlia Flower Deformity and Rot: Thrips or Botrytis Blight?

Two Prime Suspects

1. Thrips: Tiny, fast insects inside buds. Deform flowers, cause browning. Check by slowly opening a young bloom.
2. Botrytis (gray mold): Fuzzy gray growth on petals, especially in humid conditions. Test by bagging a bloom with damp paper towel 48 hrs.

Action Plan

• If thrips: Spray spinosad or insecticidal soap weekly, targeting buds.
• If Botrytis: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply copper fungicide.
• Remove and destroy all affected flowers immediately.

Expert Help

If unsure, take blooms to a local nursery or contact your county extension (Alabama has labs at Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Auburn).