KEEP YOUR DAHLIAS GOING

Thanks to the sum-mer drought, dahlias were late starting this year but they still have potential. If cared for, they’ll continue to flower for the whole of October and even into november.

To help them along, make sure the plants are well watered. In our drought-ravaged region, sub- soils are still bone dry — even after several wet spells. If your plants look stressed, give them a good soak.

Check for exhausted stems and remove those to encourage new budding. To continue flowering, dahlias must also be dead headed regularly. Twice weekly will help extend the season.