Dahlia 'Polka'
anemone-flowered dahlia
An eye-catching choice for summer impact, this tuberous-rooted perennial forms a strong, upright clump clothed in rich dark green foliage that sets off the blooms beautifully.
From mid-summer through to the first frosts it produces distinctive anemone-style flowers, each around 10cm (4in) across, with a crisp, symmetrical appearance that holds well on sturdy stems. The outer petals are creamy white, softly flushed with blush tones and finished with a precise deep pink edging, while the centre forms a dense, domed powder-puff of short, finely toothed golden yellow florets that adds texture and contrast.
Ideal for sunny borders, cutting gardens and large containers, Dahlia 'Polka' works especially well in exotic planting schemes or as a bright counterpoint to darker, dramatic colours, delivering reliable plants and show-quality flowers throughout the season.
From mid-summer through to the first frosts it produces distinctive anemone-style flowers, each around 10cm (4in) across, with a crisp, symmetrical appearance that holds well on sturdy stems. The outer petals are creamy white, softly flushed with blush tones and finished with a precise deep pink edging, while the centre forms a dense, domed powder-puff of short, finely toothed golden yellow florets that adds texture and contrast.
Ideal for sunny borders, cutting gardens and large containers, Dahlia 'Polka' works especially well in exotic planting schemes or as a bright counterpoint to darker, dramatic colours, delivering reliable plants and show-quality flowers throughout the season.
How to care for Dahlia Polka:
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 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 over-crowded.
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.
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.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
-
This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.
-
Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
1 × tuber
£5.99
sold out
Unavailable
1
