RAISING OF DAHLIAS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 September 1939, Page 10

RAISING OF DAHLIAS

I HINTS FOR THE WOMAN I GARDENER. I The raising of dahlias from seed is I an interesting and fascinating experi- | ment, and it provides plenty of scope for the gambling instinct inherent in every one of us. One never knows what choice specimen may evolve from a seed out of an inexpensive packet purchased at the seed store, and it is this element of uncertainty which provides the pleasure in growing flowers in general from seed, and dahlias in particular. The dahlia, besides being one of the most beautiful flowers in the garden, is also one of the most prodigal with its blooms, a fact the woman gardener, with an eye to future home decoration, is quick to recognise. It is difficult to make a selection, for there are so many varieties, all of them beautiful, and all so easy to grow. For beauty and size the decorative variety are first on the list, but the garden cactus, charm, collarettes, and paeony are almost equally popular. Another variety, the pompone, dwarfgrowing dahlias with attractive little flowers on long, wiry stems, are much I sought after .for decorative purposes. Prepare the seed-boxes by filling them with soil to the depth of at least six inches. The boxes should have holes drilled in the bottom and sides, and should have a layer of broken crocks, charcoal, or other good draining material underneath the soil. The soil should be moderately rich. Sow the seed half an inch deep and three inches apart. The seeds germinate quickly and readily, especially if the boxes are covered with glass, and if the soil is not allowed to dry out, the seedlings will soon be ready for trans-. planting to further boxes. (When they show four leaves they are ready). In another four weeks’ time they should be ready for their final transplanting to open ground. In the meantime the beds should be prepared for them. Loamy soil, deep and well drained, will suit them, and choose a position that is sheltered from westerly winds. Soil that is light and sandy may be conditioned by incorporating with it plenty of old, welldecayed dairy manure. For soil that is too stiff and heavy use old stable or fowl manure. Above all, see that the drainage is good, for dahlias resent sour soil or stagnant water lying round their roots. A dressing of lime on the surface will sweeten the soil —about two oi three ounces to every square yard will , be sufficient. It is important before planting out to drive in stout stakes where the plan are to go, for, if this is done after the plants are put in, the roots are apt tc be damaged. Tie the plants to protect them from wind, and, as the plants develop, tic them further up on the stake. Plant out about three feet apart and three feet between the rows, and shade the young plants for a week or two From October till late December is the 1 best season for planting. ?