XV 



ON DAHLIAS 



THE Dahlia occupies a somewhat peculiar position among 

 garden flowers. It is undeniably in the front rank of 

 outdoor plants, it is a recognised exhibition flower, it 

 has a society devoted to its interests, it is grown by all 

 classes ; and yet one can hardly speak of it as a flower 

 that is loved by the people. Perhaps it inspires admira- 

 tion rather than affection. It is likeable rather than 

 lovable. 



Dahlia shows do not draw the public like exhibitions 

 of Roses, Sweet Peas, Chrysanthemums, and Carnations. 

 Truth to tell, the long rows of boxes, with their severely 

 correct blooms all of which might have been turned 

 out of a mould are not inspiriting. The big, double 

 flowers of the "Show" and "Fancy" sections are as 

 prim as middle-aged parlour-maids. There is more 

 cheerfulness in the singles, which are exhibited in 

 bunches ; and the Cactus section is also interesting. 

 Another thing that tells against Dahlia shows is that 

 they are held at the end of August and in the early part 

 of September, when the holiday season is at its height. 

 Even flower-lovers like to get away to the seaside some- 

 times, and once comfortably established on the beach 

 in flannels, they are apt to be more interested in the 

 children's sand-castles than in exhibitions of Dahlias. 



Experts speak of a growing lack of interest in Dahlias 



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