44 The Dahlia 



be pinched out, with the exception of a few near the 

 terminal buds, by means of which the blooms can be 

 timed. In this class the flowers to be desired are 

 those of large size without approaching to coarseness. 

 They must also have what is known as " depth of 

 flower," with a high centre and good colour. 



CACTUS-FLOWERED varieties may be thinned in the 

 same way as has been recommended for the Show and 

 Fancy sections, when extra large flowers are required ; 

 but, as over-sized flowers in this class should not be 

 encouraged, a few more shoots may be allowed to each 

 plant. Stake and secure all branches as advised for 

 the Show class. 



POMPON DAHLIAS are considered all the finer when 

 the blooms are small and neatly formed; hence little 

 is done to the plants beyond staking the branches and 

 securing them against damage by wind or otherwise. 



SINGLE DAHLIAS, being used chiefly for garden 

 decoration, can hardly have too many shoots. Like 

 all others, they must be staked and secured from 

 breakage. Opinions are divided as to whether in this 

 class the reflexed or saucer-shaped blooms are the best 

 for exhibition. Both kinds have something to be said 

 in their favour. Personally I prefer those slightly 

 reflexed. 



SINGLE CACTUS DAHLIAS are grown for the same 

 purpose, and require precisely the same treatment as 

 the foregoing. The most beautiful flowers in this 

 class have slightly incurving or claw-shaped florets, 

 thereby enhancing their value for table decoration. 



