Hybrid

Flower: Narrow, curled petals (smaller than decorative types).

Height: Plants grow to 1.5m tall.

Cactus

Flower: Double blooms with pointed ray florets.

Height: Plants grow to 1.2m tall.

Single

Flower: A single row of outer florets.

Height: Plants grow to 60cm tall.

Pompon

Flower: Miniature ball-shaped flowers in a variety of colours.

Height: Plants grow to 90cm tall.

Decorative

Flower: Large, heavy, double blooms 15-25cm in diameter, produced on long stems.

Height: Mature plants can reach 2m or more.

Collarette

Flower: Flowers with a distinct centre, with space between the petals.

Height: Plants grow to 60-75cm tall.

Growing Dahlia Tubers

While dahlias can be grown from seed, they are best propagated from tuber divisions in early winter after the plants have died down. At Oderings, tubers are available for planting during the growing season. Here's how to plant them:

Planting Depth

Dig a hole 10-15cm deep and place the tuber with the sprouting eye pointing upwards.

Spacing

For larger varieties, space plants 75cm-1m apart.

For smaller varieties, space them 30-50cm apart.

Dahlias require well-drained soil and a sunny position with protection from strong winds. These plants are "gross feeders" and need soil enriched with plenty of compost. Once the flower buds form, fertilise with Blood & Bone or a liquid fertiliser. If your soil is acidic, balance the pH by adding lime.

Caring for Dahlias

Watering: Dahlias require deep weekly watering to thrive, especially during the summer and autumn.

Dead-heading: Removing spent blooms will encourage continued flowering throughout the season.

Fertilising: Once buds appear, feed with fertiliser to ensure strong growth and vibrant flowers.

Your dahlias will flourish by providing these growing conditions, creating a spectacular garden display from summer through autumn.