Key to Dahlias 
C—Cactus I.C.—Incurved Cactus F.D.—Formal 
S.C.—Semi-Cactus I.D.—Informal Decorative 
FERTILIZING 
In general it is not wise to fertilize dahlias at 
planting. In case this is done take care that ferti¬ 
lizer does not come in contact with or near to the 
tuber or plant. 
First, plant in good productive soil, Second, see 
that the soil contains each season a good portion 
of humus. Rye sowed each fall after dahlias are 
dug and spaded or plowed under when of suitable 
height in the spring will liven the soil and provide 
some humus. Well rotted manure is good and 
should be applied in the fall or winter, never in the 
spring. 
Avoid all chemical fertilizers. Be sure to use the 
old-fashioned mixed type of commercial fertilizers. 
This should be applied starting in July at two week 
intervals, spreading between the plants and rak¬ 
ing or cultivating into the top soil. Twenty-five 
pounds per season for 100 dahlias is about right. 
Bone meal and wood ashes mixed with the fertilizer 
is excellent. 
For run down soil we reccommend rotted manure 
and the fertilizer top dressings as described below. 
Fresh manure of any kind should never be used. 
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