Planting Dahlias in Pots: In Spring pot up dahlia tubers, around 5cm – 10cm deep and place somewhere with sufficient sunlight and frost-free. Avoid over-watering. Pinch out growing tips at 20cm and plant out after the last frosts.

Planting Dahlia in the Ground: Alternatively, plant straight into the ground after the danger of frosts has passed. Around 5cm – 10cm deep. Ensure the area around the dahlia tuber is not compact and has good drainage. They prefer to be in a sunny location and spaced at approximately 45cm apart.

Growing Dahlia from Seeds: Dahlia seeds should be sown undercover between February and April. Sow 0.5cm deep in trays of moist compost. Place in a warm position, about 15-20°C (60-68°F). Keep moist but avoid overwatering. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to deeper trays or individual small pots. Grow on in cooler, but frost-free location. Gradually harden off young plants before planting out after the risk of frost has passed.

• During the growing season (Summer) add dahlia fertiliser once a month.

• All dahlias need regular deadheading, which will promote flowering.

• All dahlias should be staked, as they can easily break at the base in heavy wind or rain.

• Dahlias prefer moist soil. In dry weather water a few times a week with a good soak. If Dahlias are in pots water them every day during the hot & dry season.

• During the growing season slugs and other pests love to nibble on dahlia leaves and blooms (especially seedlings). Ensure you protect them in order for them to survive.

• If you experience extreme cold wet weather during the Winter, dig up your dahlias and store them in a cool dry area.