Cutting down dahlias early
Some of my dahlias are just growing so big and blocking and completely growing over other plants. I didn't realise they would grow so big. Perhaps I underestimated how much space they'd need.But then I had others which looked the same when planting which have stayed small.
Can I cut them down now? I was disappointed by them and don't really like these dahlias either....and don't intend on replanting them next year.
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If you don't want them, dig them up and chuck them.
If you cut them down, they are unlikely to develop good size tubers for next year.
Last edited: 13 August 2016 14:42:47
for the fag ends of the aristocracy.
S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
Oh. No I don't want to chuck them because I am going to give them away next season. I know people who have asked for them so I said okay. Can't I just cut down the stalks and leaves which are blocking other plants? will this affect the tuber size next year too?
Yes. They need the leaves to build up the tubers, although if you only remove a few, they might be all right.
for the fag ends of the aristocracy.
S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
Dig them up, put them in pots and give them away now. The new owners can look after them over the winter then, you'll need the space for other plants.
Okay you know what Verdun, I had not even tried to stake them. I have been too busy and also maybe a bit lazy
I just went and had a look and they were falling all over the place so I followed your advice and staked it. It's now out of the way of the rose. I only did one though, there's quite a few more to stake.
I still don't think I'll keep them next year though!
Don't dig them up until the first frosts keel them over. those tubers need all the nutrition from those lovely fleshy leaves and stems now. Another alternative you can steam and eat the tubers. And in deed the leaves. Store them in a dark cool place during the winter months as punk and verdun say. I would personally let them dry out for a couple of weeks. First week clean them up. Trim the roots off being carefull not to damage the tuber. End of week one core out whats left of the stem.
Thanks Musher. I don't think I'll eat them but thanks for the suggestion. I would rather give them away and let someone enjoy the flowers. I just now have to wait for them to finish. I wish I had known how big they got. I really need the space as I want to plant more roses and peonies. But now I'll have to wait. Or I may give in and dig up the plants and give them away now...I'll see how I feel in a few more days.
I love peonies to. If i have enough change left over after my holiday. I hope to buy either another tree peony or intersectional peony. Perhaps Punk could precribe me one.