THE DAHLIA. 21 



selves to any soil, it may be well to state, however, that a good sandy loam 

 is especially adapted to their culture, owing to its drouth resisting qualities. 

 Yet this is not of great importance as everything depends on the treatment 

 given and the fertility, rather than the quality, of the soil. 



Fertility goes hand and hand with position and is of great importance ; 

 for, no matter where you plant your Dahlias or how good your treatment, 

 they will not grow luxuriantly or bloom freely unless there is an abundance 

 of available plant food in the soil. The plants being strong, robust growers 

 are not particular as to what particular form or kind of fertilizer is given, 

 provided it contains the necessary elements required for their development. 

 Any kind of well rotted manure that is most convenient will give equally 

 good results, if sufficient quantity is well worked into the soil. 



It is always best to broadcast the manure and plow or spade it into the 

 soil, while it is absolutely necessary if it is not well decomposed. On heavy, 

 clay or gravelly soils, loose, coarse manure may be used (broadcasted and 

 plowed or spaded in of course) with excellent results, as it lightens the soil 

 and allows a freer root growth, but on light or sandy soils the manure should 

 always be fine and well rotted. 



Commercial fertilizers are also largely used, and are most valuable when 

 used in connection with manure. Any good fertilizer, rich in ammonia and 

 phosphoric acid with a liberal amount of potash, will answer at the time of 

 planting, but as a top dressing later, I have found nothing that would equal 

 pure bone meal and nitrate of soda, in proportion four parts bone and one 

 part soda. 



