FEBRUARY in the Dahlia Patch

We've finally received some much needed rain and warm days so things in the Dahlia patch are looking good!

February can bring some hot days and with the Robbo show coming up in March, if you're wanting. to throw your hat in the ring and win some ribbons for your blooms you may want to give your plants a little extra love and attention this month.

KEEP POWDERY MILDEW AT BAY

To promote air flow around your bloom and keep mildew away you may wish to remove some of the lower leaves.

DISBUD & PICK TO PROMOTE BETTER BLOOMS

If you'd like larger blooms continue to disbud additional buds so that they plant can put all of its energy into a select few buds. Picking as soon as the blooms have matured will also maximise your blooms while still ensuring you have lovely flowers in vases.

PULSE WATERING

February can bring very warm weather so keep you Dahlia's well watered during dry spells. If you have the time and inclination, pulse watering works particularly well. This is where you water at ground level over short bursts, avoiding the leaves to reduce mildew risk, throughout the day. You can also set up a dripper hose with a timer to save the manual labour.

Here are some blooms from our Garden Club Members for your enjoyment.

Dahlia "Kotara"

Afternoon picks

Dahlia "Majestic"

Dahlia "Kotara"

Dahlia "CMC Blue"

Dahlia "African Sunset"

Dahlia "Jeff Bloom"

Dahlia - unknown Anemone variety