Dahlia Dark Side of the Sun (PBR)
decorative dahlia
Delivery options
- Standard £5.95
This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.
- Position: full sun
- Soil:moderately fertile, moist but freely drained soil or general-purpose compost for containers
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: July to October
- Hardiness: borderline hardy (may need winter protection)
‘Dark Side of the Sun' radiates strikingly dark bronze foliage that borders on an almost burgundy-black hue. From midsummer until the arrival of the first frosts, this compact cultivar delights with sun-kissed apricot-orange blooms adorned with a soft yellow halo and distinguished dark central discs. Each single flower presents broad, rounded petals creating an enchanting contrast against the deep-hued leaves.
Protect under glass or in a frost-free, sheltered location until risk of frost has passed, then plant out or pot up into larger containers. While in growth, provide a high-nitrogen liquid feed each week in June, then a high-potash fertiliser each week from July to September. In mild areas, leave them in situ over winter, but protect the crown with a generous layer of dry mulch. In colder areas, carefully lift and clean the tubers once the first frosts have blackened the foliage and allow them to dry naturally indoors. Then place the dry tubers in a shallow tray, just covered with slightly moist potting compost, sand or vermiculite and store in a frost-free place until planting out again.