DAHLIAS ON DISPLAY

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 45, 16 November 1940, Page 16

DAHLIAS ON DISPLAY

The Best Backgrounds For Effect It is time now to plant and plan for effective displays in the late summer and autumn. Every gardener can grow dahlias, but not many get the best out of a display, because they neglect to consider effective backgrounds and other plants to grow in association with these colourful late-bloomers. An ideal setting for dahlias is on the outskirts of a shrub border, the darker foliage of the shrubs offsetting the brilliant flowers to perfection. If you have not planted your tubers yet, .and your garden offers scope, try these combinations:

In the foreground of a group of dark red-leaved primus, or surrounding a single tree, plant cactus dahlias iu the yellow tones. Some of the pink shades or the charming lavender pompone varieties look wed) with the same background. Some of the copper-leaved shrubs, such as some maples, are also a perfect foil for these shades.

Among silvery-foliaged shrubs, plant rose pink cactus dahlia--, or the brilliant. cerise decorative types. The small magenta kinds look well with this background, too. Some of the salmon pink and apricot shades also look well with grey foliage settings, but they must be kept away from the cerise and magenta shades.

Against dark-leaved autumnal backgrounds such shades as brick-reds, orange scarlets, buffs and oranges, make a glowing mass of colour long to be remembered for its brilliance and the beauty of the setting.