Buy cactus dahlia Dahlia 'Karma Sangria (PBR)'

Dahlia 'Karma Sangria' (PBR)

Position: full sun
Soil: fertile, humus-rich soil
Rate of growth: average
Flowering period: July to September
Hardiness: half hardy (may need winter protection)

Each of the quill-like 'petals' have a golden yellow base, but the colour merges to pink, and becomes more intense towards the pointed tips. This two-tone effect is quite striking, and useful for tying in pink or yellow-flowered plants in the border. The flowerheads top long, sturdy stems so they are excellent for cutting.
Garden care: Dahlia tubers can be planted outside after frost, or started off in pots under glass in late winter to early spring. Plant them horizontally approximately 12cm deep, making sure the ‘eyes’ are uppermost. Allow enough room between each tuber so the plants can grow and spread to their full size without being overcrowded. While in growth, provide a high-nitrogen liquid feed each week in June, then a high-potash fertiliser each week from July to September. Stake with canes or brushwood if it becomes necessary. In mild areas, leave them in situ over winter, but protect the crown with a generous layer of dry mulch. In colder areas, carefully lift and clean the tubers once the first frosts have blackened the foliage and allow them to dry naturally indoors. Then place the dry tubers in a shallow tray, just covered with slightly moist potting compost, sand or vermiculite and store in a frost-free place until planting out again.