Dahlia Bora Bora

Dahlia Bora Bora – This dahlia’s semi-cactus blooms with their tubular spikes standing flat from a centre cluster of erect short petals are a real show-stopper. A stunning bright flower full of tropical flavour; bright pink-red tips and a warm yellow centre.

Dahlia ‘Bora Bora’ grows well in full sun or with partial shade and makes a striking cut flower.

When planting outdoors, be sure to choose a sunny spot with good air circulation. If you’re growing indoors, use potting soil made specifically for indoor plants, as this will ensure adequate drainage. Finally, make sure to deadhead / prune Dahlia ‘Bora Bora’ regularly to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.

Planting Dahlia Tubers

Plant dahlia tubers in pots from mid spring and place into a frost free warm and sunny environment such as a cold frame, green house or window ledge to get an early start. However, they can be planted straight into the ground from April once the frosts have passed. When planting, make sure dahlia tubers have adequate drainage, plant with the eyes (buds) facing upwards. Place in soil rich in organic matter such as compost or aged manure at a depth of around six inches. Water lightly and consistently so the soil remains moist but not soggy. Place stakes around the dahlia soon after planting and tie it up when necessary. The young leaves are vulnerable to slugs but as the plant matures, they tend to leave them alone.

Keep your Dahlias blooming from June right through until the first Winter frosts by removing any dead flower heads and feeding them regularly, dahlias need plenty of water and fertiliser every few weeks for optimal results. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers will encourage a longer flowering period unto the first frosts of autumn.

Storing Dahlia Tubers

Dahlias are not frost hardy and will need to be lifted again in November. At the end of the growing season, you can dig your Dahlia tubers up gently and store them for replanting the following Spring. Cut off all but about 15cm of top growth before doing so, and allow them to dry before storing them in a ventilated box or basket filled with slightly moist sand or vermiculite, and in a cool, dry place.

Keep the tubers moist throughout the Winter and cut away any sign of rot, replant as soon as the last frosts have come and gone.