REPLANT DAHLIAS

Evening Post, Volume CXVI, Issue 83, 5 October 1933, Page 20

REPLANT DAHLIAS

DIVIDE OLD TUBERS

Dahlias'which' were lifted for the winter and stored, away should now be replanted, if that has not already been done. Old tubers may be divided and planted with the crowns several inches beneath the surface. The present month is the best time for this work, but next month will be time enough to plant out rooted cuttings which have been struck. . The question of supports for dahlias is important, as the plants have hollow stems which, when in full bloom, are liable to be top; heavy-and very easily broken by gales. It is advisable to place one good strong stake as near the crown as possible before covering the tubers, as there can then be no possibility of damage to the tubers. Later a stake should be supplied' for each growth. A lighter stake may be used for this, each one being attached to the strong central one. '• Growths should be limited according to the size of the plant, from three to five being sufficient. All surplus growths should be cut out while quite small. Dahlias should be planted in an open, sunny position where they will get plenty of light and air, but where they are protected from the worst of the winds. An open position encourages the development of strong, sturdy growths with firm flower stems. _ Shady conditions tend to the production of slender, drawn stems, an abundance of foliage with few blooms, and these of poor quality. It is a great mistake to crowd dahlias when planting, as few plants are more influenced by an abundance of sunlight and air all round them. Never try to grow twenty plants where there is only room for ten to develop fully. Dwarf varieties should not be closer than three feet apart, while the tall, growing sorts require up to six feet. MANY VARIETIES. There are many different varieties of dahlias, all of which have been greatly improved in recent years, most of them now having stiff wiry stems which hold the blooms erect. Suitable kinds may be obtained for any purpose. Dahlias are very satisfactory plants, first, because they bloom over such a long period, filling in the time between the summer flowers and the chrysanthemums; and, secondly, on account of the. very wide range of colours and variety of blooms from the small pompom to th© largest decorative variety. Being very prolific the plants require liberal treatment both in the preparation of the soil before planting and in the matter of feeding with liquid manure. They are also among the thirstiest plants grown, and must never be allowed to suffer from dryness if satisfactory blooms are to be obtained.