DAHLIA 



371 



should be grown from cuttings of young stems or from division of the 

 roots. If cuttings are to be made, it wiU be necessary to start the roots 

 early, either in a hotbed or house. When the growths have reached 4 

 or 5 inches, they may be cut from the plant and rooted in sand. 

 Care should be taken to cut just below a joint, as a cutting made 

 between two joints will not form tubers. The most rapid method of 

 propagation of named varieties is to grow from cuttings in this way. 



In growing the plants from roots, the best plan is to place the whole 

 root in gentle heat, covering slightly. When the young growth has 

 started, the roots may be taken up, divided, and planted out 3 to 

 4 feet apart. This plan will insure a plant from each piece of root, 

 whereas if the roots are divided while dormant, there is danger of not 

 having a bud at the end of each piece, in w^hich case no growth will 

 start ; the roots are sometimes cut into pieces while dormant, however, 

 but one should be sure that a piece of old stem with bud is on each 

 piece. 



One objection to the old dahlia was its lateness of bloom. But by 

 starting the roots early in a frame, or in boxes that are covered at 

 night, the plants may be had in flower several weeks earlier than usual. 

 They may be started in April, or at least three weeks in advance of 

 planting time. Little water will be required till they start. When 

 they begin shooting up, the plants should have the full sun, and air, 

 on all mild days. They will then make a slow, sturdy growth. All 

 forcing should be avoided. These plants, set out when there is no 

 longer danger of frost, and well watered before completely covering the 

 roots, will grow right on, and often begin blooming in July. 



Dormant roots may be set out in May. The roots, unless small, 

 should be divided before planting, as a single strong root is usually 

 better than a whole clump. The roots of all but the Dwarf should 

 be set about 3 feet apart, in rows. In poor soils none but the first 

 class will need stakes. 



The dahlia flourishes best in a deep, loose, moist soil; very good 

 results can be had on sandy soil, provided plant-food and moisture 

 are furnished. Clay should be avoided. If the ground is too strong, 

 they will probably bloom too late for the northern latitudes. 



If the plants are to be grown without stakes, the center of each plant 

 should be pinched out after making two or three joints. By doing this 



