How to grow beautiful dahlias

Plant them well

• When planting, add manure to the soil or a slow-release organic fertiliser to promote development and flowering.
• Protect them from slugs, which are fond of young shoots. Anticipate by spreading organic pellets based on ferramol between the plants or by surrounding the plants with a barrier of wood ash or sawdust.

Pamper them!

Some varieties can reach over 1 m in height. Stake the stems using bamboo canes or chestnut wood. Also remember that the clumps will spread: insert 3 to 5 stakes per plant, tying them together with string.

Give them a drink!

Dahlias are fond of nutrients and water. During dry weather, water them generously at first once a week, and during flowering, twice if necessary. To maintain moisture between waterings, consider mulching around their base (hemp or flax flakes, or a layer of grass clippings).