Dahlias are half hardy, so keep them protected from frost. Pot tubers individually between February and April and grow them on in a greenhouse or bright indoor position. Alternatively, start them outside in May, once the risk of frost has passed.
'Dalmuti Jester'
A little theatrical and wonderfully unpredictable, Dahlia 'Dalmuti Jester' brings a playful mix of colour to the summer garden. Its richly layered flowers combine lively pink and red tones with lighter highlights, creating an almost painted effect across the petals. The colouring can vary between individual blooms, making each flower worth a closer look. There is a delightful sense of movement in the way the petals overlap, giving the flowers a full, animated appearance. Dahlia 'Dalmuti Jester' is particularly effective among simpler flower shapes, where its intricate blooms can take centre stage without overwhelming the planting. Pair it with deep green foliage, airy grasses or flowers in softer shades to let its colourful personality shine.
Despite its flamboyant appearance, Dahlia 'Dalmuti Jester' is surprisingly versatile in the garden. Its warm pink and red colouring can brighten a mixed border, while the lighter markings help it blend beautifully with neighbouring flowers. It also makes an appealing cut flower, bringing texture and a touch of the unexpected to seasonal arrangements. Plant Dahlia 'Dalmuti Jester' in fertile, free-draining soil where it receives plenty of sunshine, and keep the soil adequately moist during active growth. Regular deadheading or picking encourages further flowers throughout the season. With its expressive colouring and cheerful disposition, Dahlia 'Dalmuti Jester' is just the thing for gardeners who appreciate a little fun among their flowers.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
For planting out later, use a snug-fitting 15–20cm pot filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. For a patio display, plant directly into a container at least 30cm wide and keep it somewhere bright and frost free until it can move outdoors.
Position the old stem facing upwards, with the tubers covered and the stem stump level with the compost. Tubers naturally vary in size and shape and may arrive without visible buds. Bent necks are usually fine if they remain firmly attached, so do not remove them.
Water after planting, then allow the compost to become almost dry before watering again while the tuber remains dormant. Once shoots and leaves are growing strongly, water more regularly, always allowing excess water to drain away.
Plant out after the last frost, once the plant is around 20–30cm tall and its roots hold the compost together. Space dahlias approximately 30–50cm apart in borders, allowing less room for compact varieties. Water thoroughly after planting.
Water regularly during active growth and deadhead or cut flowers often. Dahlias usually bloom from July or August until the first frost, although later-planted tubers may start in late August or September. In autumn, lift, clean and dry the tubers, then store them somewhere cool, dry, airy and frost free.
- Botanical name
- Dahlia 'Dalmuti Jester'
- Flower colour
- Pink, red, cream
- Tuber size
- 1
- Established height
- 1-1.2m
- Established spread
- 30-50cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Half hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant spacing
- 5 tubers per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- No
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Coastal gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1st year
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.