Prolonging flowering in dahlias

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 32838, 11 February 1972, Page 11

Prolonging flowering in dahlias

The quality and duration of flowering of dahlias can be enhanced and prolonged with a little extra effort.

Pinching back is of value to promote more sideshoots, which means an increase in potential flower bud promotion. Once these begin to develop it is worth doing a little disbudding, even if there is no intention of exhibiting any of the blooms. A cluster of buds is normally reduced to one, the usual procedure being to remove the outside ones. However, it is a wise gardener who will examine them all before singling out the one to keep, as buds can be damaged in one way or another.

Where blooms are required for exhibition purposes side laterals, with the exception of the bottom two, can be removed to provide a long, clean stem but at the same time making provisions for blooming later in the season.

I Staking is always advisable, particularly in exposed areas, and with the I larger growing varieties. To avoid drawing the plant together, thus restricting air circulation and thereby risking spread of disease and pests, it pays to support the individual flower stems. Strips of nylon stocking make excellent ties and there are also some very useful clasps and bands for this purpose on the market. When picking dahlias, do so early in the morning or late at night. Once cut, they should be placed in water immediately. To prolong their life, stems should be cut with a sharp knife. Many flower arrangers and exhibitors prefer an angled cut as this can make it easier for the flower to draw up water. After cutting the stems should be dipped into boiling water for about 30 seconds for a length of about one inch of stem and then straight back into cold water.