Dahlia 



Lettuces plentifully at the same time, or previously, on the same 

 ground, and to dust around the Dahlias with lime. 



DAHLIA, SINGLE 



Half-hardy perennial 



OF late there has been a growing interest in plants producing single 

 flowers, and many old acquaintances have been restored to popular 

 favour after a long period of neglect. Perhaps none deserves this 

 revived attention more than the Single Dahlia, especially since a 

 few intelligent cultivators have taken it in hand, and produced many 

 varieties which are remarkable for intense and brilliant colouring, 

 combined with great beauty of form. 



The plant may be propagated from tubers in the same manner as 

 the double variety, but it will save both time and space during winter 

 to raise the required number from seed. The seedlings grow freely 

 and quickly, and will flower quite as early as those grown by the 

 more lengthy and troublesome method. Even those who possess a 

 stock of named sorts may with advantage raise a supply from seed, 

 especially as there is a probability of securing some charming novelty, 

 which is in itself no small incentive. 



Although the Dahlia is a tender plant, it is easily managed in a 

 greenhouse, or in a frame resting on a hot-bed. The seed may be 

 sown as early as January, but unless sufficient space is at command 

 to keep the plants stocky as they develop, it will be wise to wait 

 until February. A sowing then will produce plants forward enough 

 to bloom at the usual time. Even March will not be too late ; but 

 whatever time may be chosen, when the start has been made it 

 must be followed up with diligence, so as to avoid giving any check 

 from first to last. Sow thinly in pots or pans filled with ordinary 

 light rich compost, and cover the seed with a mere sprinkling of fine 

 earth. When the first pair of leaves attain the height of an inch, 

 pot off each plant singly close up to the base of the leaves. It is 

 not advisable to throw the weakly seedlings away; these are the 

 very plants which are most likely to display new shades of colour 

 and therefore they are worth some additional trouble. Although 

 weak at the outset, they may, by judicious treatment, be developed 

 into a thriving and healthy condition. 



When potted, place the plants in heat, giving a little extra care 

 until growth is fairly started. In due time shift into larger sizes as 



23.9 



