Planting dahlias

Dahlias can go out in mid-may in the sheltered, warmer parts of the garden, but we wait until the last week of May to plant up in the more cold and windy spots. These can be planted out in much the same way as pot-grown seedlings, but there are a few things to bear in mind…

● Dahlias thrive in rich, moist soil, so add plenty of organic matter to the planting position.

● Dig a hole roughly twice the depth and width of the root ball.

● Look for shoots that are getting leggy and pinch them back. This will make them more bushy, giving you plenty of flowers.

● Slug and snail patrol is crucial, as dahlias are some of their favourite food. Use repellant on nearby box, yew and garden hedges – that’s where slugs hang out during the day, coming out to feast on your dahlias at night.

● Be on frost alert and cover with fleece if it is forecast.

● Once dahlias have hit about 60cm, they will need to be staked. You can make your own supports, or use iron frames; simple iron hoops will give enough support.