Cultivating 103 



for these, like the others, come also in pairs. 

 Remember that there should be plenty of 

 ventilation among the leaves, so plan to allow 

 only shoots which will grow outward to remain. 



If flower buds form early in the summer the 

 stalk should be cut back at least halfway. No 

 harm done! Two shoots start vigorously from 

 the last joint left, and in due course of time will 

 reward you for your care. 



About the middle of August is time enough 

 to let the flowers have their way unless the plant 

 is destined to make a special effort for some show. 



The uncertainty of weather is a big factor at 

 this time. With a normal amount of rainfall, 

 moderate heat followed by a few cool days, the 

 average dahlia will produce a magnificent bloom 

 four weeks after the tiny bud is visible. Greater 

 heat and stimulating fertilizers wiU produce 

 flowers more quickly, while cool dry weather will 

 hold the buds back as long as it lasts. Taking 

 all this into account, I always stop entire dis- 

 budding on August 15th, and begin disbudding 

 for bloom at once. 



Each flower stalk soon shows three or more 

 terminal flower buds. When they are about 

 the size of peas, all but one should be removed, 

 saving, if possible, the central bud. Any of the 

 buds will develop well, but only the central bud 



