Description

Dahlia Tartan is grown for dramatic, high contrast patterning. The flowers are typically deep wine red to burgundy, irregularly striped and streaked with white, giving a bold look that reads well from a distance and still holds detail up close. Irish horticulturists use patterned dahlias like this as feature plants in display borders, entrance planting and promotional beds, because they break up blocks of solid colour and look distinctive in mixed summer weather. In Irish gardens it is best placed where it can be appreciated, near patios, paths or at the front of borders. It performs well in large containers for an instant talking point. For cutting gardens, the big blooms make statement stems, and regular cutting or deadheading drives repeat flowering through late summer into autumn. Pair it with simpler companions such as ornamental grasses, silver foliage, whites and deep reds so the striped blooms do the work. Plant after frost risk in full sun and fertile, free draining soil improved with compost. Keep moisture steady, stake if exposed, feed from bud stage onwards and deadhead regularly. Lift and store tubers frost free after the first frosts.