Dahlia Witteman’s Best Dahlia Witteman’s Best is a deep red cactus dahlia with fuller petal than the more spidery cactus dahlias. Being a tall, 120cm, Dahlia Witteman’s Best really stands out planted in a prominent position in the flower border. Long stems make the dahlia a great cut flower. As with most dahlia plants it flowers freely if deadheaded regularly. Dahlia Witteman’s Best should be planted in sunny sheltered locations in free draining humus rich soils. Incorporating well-rotted manure or compost is beneficial. On heavier soils incorporate sand and/or grit and compost to aid drainage. Plant tubers outside from April onwards or for earlier flowers plant in pots in a greenhouse or conservatory in March. Protect fresh growth from late frosts. Taller varieties may need extra support with canes and twine. Dahlia plants will flower from July right through to the first frosts. Dahlia tubers need frost protection during the winter. In warmer drier gardens it is possible to leave them in the ground otherwise lift the Dahlia tubers and store them somewhere dry and frost free.
