www.nebelung.de 2 FOR THE JOY OF GARDENING DAHLIAS The original form of today's dahlias comes from Mexico and was already known to the Aztecs in the 14th century. More than 200 years ago the first dahlias arrived in Berlin at the botanical garden there and intensive breeding began. Since that time the dahlia has experienced many ups and downs, but has become very fashionable again in recent years. On the flower island of Mainau, for example, many visitors vote for the dahlia queen of the year. As a perennial organ, the dahlia forms a tuberous root that is even edible. The different flower shapes are the criterion for dividing the dahlias into 15 classes. Several clubs are dedicated to these very popular summer flowers. Dahlias are not hardy and must be dug up after the first autumn frosts and stored frost-free until replanting in April/ May. They require a sunny location, not too heavy soil and plenty of water and fertiliser in the summer. One day before planting, the tubers should be allowed to swell in water, as this promotes rooting and sprouting. Dahlias have many uses: as cut flowers, as container and bedding plants, as flowering privacy screens and not to forget as a nectar supplier for butterflies, bees and many other insects.
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