Dahlia Franz Kafka

Description

Franz Kafka is a superb example of a pompon dahlia with gorgeous round lilac pink flowers. The flowers of Franz Kafka have lovely round heads, hence the name. A very showy group of dahlias which are ideal for gardens and containers. Dahlias are fantastic for providing colour for any garden and are easy to grow.

Growing Instructions

Dahlias are best started off indoors from January to March to protect them from frosts. Plant Franz Kafkar outside from the end of March when the signs of frost have gone. When planting indoors  use a fine free draining medium and keep soil moist and frost free. Alternatively plant tubers straight into well prepared soils in late March to April.

Soils should be cultivated to a depth of 20cms to allow good root development. Plant tubers in fertile soils with 5cms of soil above the top of the tuber. Protect early growth from slugs and snails. During the growing season remove dead flower heads to encourage new flower growth and thus get the best from them.  Plant dahlias in areas with plenty of air flowing around them and in soils that are warming up after the winter. Regularly feed during the growing season with foods such as are well rotted manures, Tomato feed and bone meal. 

In free draining soils the tubers can be left to overwinter as long as they are given a good layer of dry mulch for protection.

Ideal to grow with companion plants such as gladioli, asiatic lilies or many types of shrubs.

Growing information

Flowering Height: 30-35″ (80-90cm)

Flowering Period: July to first frosts.

Soil type: Free draining humus rich soils, in heavier soils add grit to help with drainage.

Aspect: Semi shade to full sun.

Can also be grown in tubs and containers. For further growing advice visit Tims tips/dahlias on you tube.

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