With the spring equinox now passed, the growing season has officially begun, and gardeners are being urged to tackle a series of essential tasks to ensure a flourishing garden. Despite unseasonably warm weather in some areas, experts warn that frosts can still occur in late April and early May, so tender plants should be kept protected.
One key job is to start dahlia tubers into growth. Dahlias are a staple of late summer gardens, providing colourful blooms well into autumn. Tubers should be bought now and planted in fresh compost, kept in a light, frost-free spot such as a sunny windowsill or greenhouse. As they grow to around 10 inches tall, pinching out the top growth back to the top pair of leaves will encourage a bushier plant with more flowers.
For those preferring to plant directly into the ground, May is the time, but soil improvement with compost and mulch is recommended. A slow-release granular feed or fortnightly liquid feed will satisfy their nutrient needs. When flower buds appear, a high-potassium feed like tomato feed can boost blooming.
Dahlias thrive in sunny, sheltered spots. For small spaces, dwarf bedding varieties such as 'Art Fair' or 'Gallery Pablo' work well in containers. Taller varieties, growing above 3 feet, will need staking with a bamboo cane placed a couple of inches from the stem to avoid piercing the tubers.
