Dahlia merckii

Germination

Sow immediately. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost in a seed tray. Just cover seed with a little fine grit or compost. Ideal temp 15-20°C. Keep the soil just moist, but not wet. Can be sown in an unheated greenhouse at any time. An unheated greenhouse will offer natural germination after a period of winter cold, with the seedlings emerging in spring as the weather warms, regardless of when they have been sown.

Growing

Prefers fertile humus-rich well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and fertiliser in full sun. Tubers, once formed should be planted 10-15cm deep. Water freely in dry periods. Cut back to near ground level in autumn. Tubers may be left in the ground in warmer areas with a generous organic mulch for protection. In cooler areas the tubers should be lifted and stored until any danger of frost has passed.

Cultivation

Cut flowers or deadhead to prolong flowering window. Cut back to ground level in the autumn before lifting and storing the tuber for the winter. Propagate from softwood cuttings taken in spring from stored tubers or divide tubers ensuring each one has a viable bud.