Gardening News

Winter is now behind us, spring officially arrived on Friday. Next Sunday, the clocks go forward and we move into British Summer Time. With less than two weeks until Easter, if you have not yet done so, it is time to order your bulbs.

With spring now here, it is time that I focus on dahlias. They fill the garden with colour from June until late October, five full months of superb flowers. Try layering your borders by choosing dahlias of different heights, adding structure and flow to the garden. Every tuber we send is hand-picked from the same stock that we use for our shows. You are not buying a catalogue number or just what looks good in a photograph. You are getting the benefit of six generations of our family’s accumulated expertise, choosing the best stock and knowing what actually grows well.

Dahlias originate on the volcanic, well-drained hillsides of Mexico. They love moisture-retentive but freely draining soil, plenty of sunshine, and shelter from cold winds. Try to keep these conditions in mind when choosing their location. They will grow in practically any soil, but a little extra care produces noticeably better plants. Timing: Dahlias can be started in a frost free greenhouse but make sure you take care when hardening them off. If you are planting straight into the garden wait until the risk of frost has passed. Keep some protection handy for late surprises, old boxes or upturned pots covering the crowns will see them through a chilly night. Position: Choose full sun or light partial shade. Avoid deep shade. More sunshine equals more flowers. Soil: Dahlias are heavy feeders and require rich well-drained soil. Dig in generous amounts of garden compost a week or so before planting, then lightly fork in a top dressing of bone meal when you plant. Depth: Set the tubers 10-15cm deep. Plant horizontally with the eye facing upward encouraging stronger straighter stems. This will ensure the roots have access to sufficient moisture through dry spells. Spacing: Dahlias need room to breathe. Plant about 90cm apart for the tall varieties, 60cm for medium, and 30cm for the dwarfs. The golden rule: Once they are growing strongly, feed fortnightly with a high-potash liquid fertiliser. Ordinary tomato feed is perfect. Deadhead spent blooms without mercy. This single habit will turn a good dahlia display into a great one!