The RHS Award-winning Dahlia ‘All Directions’ produces striking, large flowers up to 10cm (4in) across. The outer petals are a vivid, eye-catching red at the tips, gently softening as they move inward, each marked with a warm reddish-orange flush at the base. At the centre, the inner petals deepen in in drama, opening a rich, slightly purplish red before darkening further toward the base, where subtle pale greenish-yellow tones highlight both the petal bases and their veins.
The blooms are carried on strong, purple-tinged stems, making this variety an excellent choice for cutting and floral arrangements.
How to care for Dahlia All Directions:
Dahlia tubers can be planted outside after frost, or started off in pots under glass in late winter to early spring. Plant them horizontally approximately 12cm (5in) deep, making sure the ‘eyes’ are uppermost. Allow enough room between each tuber so the plants can grow and spread to their full size without being overcrowded.
While in growth, provide a high-nitrogen liquid feed each week in June, then a high-potash fertiliser each week from July to September. Stake with canes or brushwood if it becomes necessary. 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.