Dahlia's Dahlia's Dahlia's

The Summer heat is upon us and if you are like me.....your'e hankering for a good down pour...24 hrs worth...a good soaking! With the heat comes some tired looking containers and Spring flowers that should be dealt with. My answer!!! DAHLIA'S. These tuberous perennials grow in most zones are a delight to the eye... Hot colors of Reds and Oranges, the Cool Magentas and Pinks paired with soft azure blue can make any neighbor slow long enough to stare and yell across the fence, " What are those flowers you have planted in those containers," which I would kindly wave back and smile saying, Lovely aren't they? Thanks I know! ;-) Dahlia's are water hogs and after you think you have watered them enough....return to it in the morning light and water them some more. They will thank you with many more blooms. Keep these bushes "dead headed", meaning pick off the old spent and faded flowers at the base of the stem. Dahlias can be found in many varieties, bush and bedding in heights of 15 inches to 6 feet high. All Dahlias have strong stems and are great cutting flowers but be aware you might want to shake off the earwigs before bringing them into your home.....those little snappers can live in the blossoms in more rural settings. For some reason, I favor the single varieties with their usual yellow eyes smiling back, letting you know Summer's grip will soon fade to Autumns glory. Enjoy Dahlia's.