Dahlia Cactus 'Purple Gem'

Although the Dahlia originated in Mexico, it flourishes in all sorts of climat. In all kinds of weather, it can be relied upon to produce an eye- catching feature in any garden.

The dahlia is not fastidious as to the soil in which it grows, and blooms of high quality can be grown by any novice, it thrives better under some conditions than others, and it repays extra effort and attention. Although dahlias will grow well in any soil, they thrive best in rich soil with good drainage, and one way to achieve this is to raise the level of the soil by incorporating as much humus as possible. Even though dahlias benefit from copious amounts of water, they dislike standing water, and good drainage should be ensured. Dahlia roots will grow down to considerable depths in searching for water, and it is helpful if the ground is well dug and a dressing of a basal fertiliser incorporated into the soil at least two or three weeks before planting. An organic fertiliser is best such as bone meal, or fish blood and bone. Two good handfuls is adequate. Planting out should not be attempted until all risk of frost is over. Plants should be well hardened off before planting, although tubers can be planted in mid April, but precautions must be taken to protect emerging shoots from frost. by earthing up or covering with newspaper overnight. Some growers start the tubers in a greenhouse or cold frame, and when the new growth is visible, the tubers are divided into pieces, each with a growing shoot, and then planted out in late May.

5 bulbs per Pack

Aug - Nov	Mar - May	110 cm	10 - 15 cm	10 - 15 cm