is needed for root development and space between plants should be enough for 
good ventilation to avoid mildew of the foliage. 
With an understanding of these requirements, we can plan the best way to 
plant and care for the Dahlias. The soil should be loose and well drained. Spad- 
ing deeply as soon as the ground can be worked in the spring is a necessary part 
of the preparation. On heavy clay soil some sort of humus should be worked 
in, and some sand or fine coal ashes. If new clay, a dressing of agricultural lime 
raked in the surface after spading will be of advantage. If the ground has been 
planted to a root crop the year before an application of bone meal and potash 
should be made, and this worked into the surface before planting. About five 
pounds of bone meal and one pound of muriate or sulphate of potash to every 
ten plants. 
When the soil has warmed up nicely, and not until then, is the time to plant. 
Do not plant a Dahlia root in cold, wet ground, and expect anything but failure. 
Some varieties may pull through, but nothing is gained by planting too early. A 
hole about five inches deep in heavy soil, to as deep as eight inches in light, 
sandy soil, is dug for each root, and allow at least three feet each way between 
holes. This for the large varieties. The Pompons may be spaced closer, also the 
miniatures for mass effects. A stake should be driven close to the hole and the 
root laid therein with the eye or sprout facing up, and toward the stake. The 
root should be covered about two inches, and the hole gradually filled in as the 
plant grows. It may be tied to the stake with soft twine or rag to avoid cutting 
the stalk. 
For a bushy plant with numerous blooms the plant may be pinched out after 
the third set of leaves forms. This will force the buds at the base of the plant to 
develop and the plant will spread out. For large blooms, pinch out the buds on 
each branch down to the base buds, leaving only one bud to a stalk. This allows 
long stems for cutting or exhibition. As Pompons and Miniatures are somewhat 
valued in inverse ratio to their size, none of these should be disbudded, but the 
young plant may be pinched out to make more blooms. 
There are a few insect pests which may infect your Dahlias, depending on 
your locality. Aphis or other sucking insects, or leaf hoppers or other chewing 
insects. There are a number of good sprays and dusts on the market, including 
We are proud of our nursery in the Kent Valley and welcome your inspection. 
5 
