When to plant Bishop Dahlia?

Bishop of Llandaff dahlias are grown from tubers, not true bulbs, and must be planted after all risk of frost has passed. In temperate Europe, April and May are the ideal months, once soil temperatures have warmed to at least 10°C. Choose a position in full sun with shelter from strong winds, as the tall stems can reach 80–110 cm and may snap in exposed sites. Soil preparation is critical. Dahlias thrive in fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soil. Dig over the planting area to a spade's depth and incorporate plenty of well-rotted compost or manure a few weeks before planting. Avoid heavy clay that stays waterlogged, as tubers will rot. If your soil is heavy, work in horticultural grit to improve drainage. Plant tubers horizontally about 10–12 cm deep with the old stem or "eye" (the growing point) facing upwards. Space them 50 cm apart to allow for their mature spread of 40–60 cm and good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases. If you're planting in rows, keep at least 50 cm between plants in all directions. Insert a sturdy bamboo cane or support stake at planting time, positioning it a few centimetres from the tuber to avoid piercing it later when roots have developed. Water the tubers in lightly after planting, but don't saturate the soil—tubers can rot if kept too wet before shoots emerge. Once growth appears, water more regularly. A 5 cm layer of mulch around the base will suppress weeds and retain moisture through summer.