Dahlia 'David Howard'
decorative dahlia
- 1 × tuber
- £5.49
- available to order from winter
Delivery options
- Bulbs (only) £4.95
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, humus-rich soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: July to October
- Hardiness: half hardy
This miniature, decorative-type dahlia will happily grow at the front of a sheltered border or in a large patio pot. Flourishing in fertile, humus-rich soil, the fully double, soft burnt orange flowers and dramatic, dark purple-bronze leaves are perfect for an exotic-type border or hot planting scheme. - Garden care: Dahlia tubers can be planted outside after frost, or started off in pots under glass in late winter to early spring. Plant them horizontally approximately 12cm deep, making sure the ‘eyes’ are uppermost. Allow enough room between each tuber so the plants can grow and spread to their full size without being overcrowded. While in growth, provide a high-nitrogen liquid feed each week in June, then a high-potash fertiliser each week from July to September. Stake with canes or brushwood if it becomes necessary. In mild areas, leave them in situ over winter, but protect the crown with a generous layer of dry mulch. In colder areas, carefully lift and clean the tubers once the first frosts have blackened the foliage and allow them to dry naturally indoors. Then place the dry tubers in a shallow tray, just covered with slightly moist potting compost, sand or vermiculite and store in a frost-free place until planting out again.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
