The Hertfordshire Garden Centre

Plant of the Month – August – Dahlia

This month, we have chosen Dahlias – not least for their extensive range of beautiful and vibrant colours. With so many varieties available, there is a favourite for every gardener!

Characteristics

This perennial plant has tuberous roots and can be fairly bushy. Native to Mexico and Central America, the Dahlia is a relative of Sunflowers, Daisies, Chrysanthemums and Zinnias. There are 49 species of Dahlia with even more hybrids grown as garden plants and they come in every colour other than blue! Their huge range of bright colours ensure they are great for attracting pollinators from July to October.

Care

Dahlias like plenty of sunshine to thrive and will need protection from the weather in winter. Often gardeners prefer to dig up their Dahlia tubers in colder areas and bring them indoors once the first frosts arrive in autumn, planting them back in the garden from early May. For best results, grow in a fertile, moist but well-drained spot ideally south or west facing. If growing in pots, plant in a good quality, peat free multi-purpose compost.

We have plenty of varieties in stock, including the Genova at £11.99 and the Fleurel at £16.99.