Dahlia 'Purple Gem'
semi-cactus dahlia
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, humus-rich soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: July to October
- Hardiness: half hardy
This rich purple, cactus-shaped dahlia will flower from midsummer to mid-autumn, particularly if the spent flowers are removed promptly - or you cut them fresh for the vase. The magnificent flowerheads look incredible when mixed with rich plums, deep purples and near-black. - 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.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
Goes well with...
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Terracotta bulb bowl
medium Ø41 × H19cm
-
Agapanthus 'Black Pantha' (PBR)
African lily
2 litre pot
-
Bulb planting auger - long
small
-
Ribbed galvanised metal tub
Ø46 × H40cm
-
Galvanised metal perennial/bulb planter with support
looped
-
Glass cloches - set of 3
Ø12.5 × H20.5cm
-
Large wire cloches Crocus green - set of 3
Ø31.5 × H28.5cm
-
Dahlia circular plant support - rust
Ø41 × H81cm
-
Terracotta perennial bell pot
Ø47 × H44cm
-
Terracotta citrus pot
Ø50 × H45cm
-
Bulb planting auger - short
medium