Decorative dahlias

What makes a decorative dahlia different?

The perfect cut flower for summer

Topping for more abundant flowering

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should you plant tall decorative dahlia tubers?
  After the Ice Saints, in mid-May, once the risk of night frost has passed. Do you want them to flower earlier? Then start the tubers off indoors in a pot in March and plant them out after mid-May.
• How deep should you plant decorative dahlia tubers?
  At a depth of 10 to 15 centimetres, with the eyes facing upwards. Space tall varieties 50 to 60 centimetres apart. Choose a sunny, nutrient-rich spot with good drainage.
• Do tall dahlias need a stake?
  Yes, for tall varieties of 80 centimetres and above, a sturdy stake is recommended. Tie the stem loosely with string — not too tightly, so that the plant can move slightly. This prevents it from being blown over in strong winds and keeps the flowers upright.
• Do you need to store the tubers over winter?
  Yes. Dig the tubers out of the ground after the first frost, leave them to dry and store them frost-free in a dark, dry place; a box lined with newspaper in the cellar works well. Plant them out again in the spring.
• Are tall decorative dahlias bee-friendly?
  Less so than open heart or collarette dahlias, as the double flower makes the nectar harder to reach. If you also want to attract bees to your decorative dahlias, combine them with bee-friendly open varieties from our range.