Dahlia 'Checkers'

'Checkers' is a striking Small Decorative Dahlia that adds a unique bicolour element to the herbaceous border. The blooms feature petals that are a rich, dark cherry-red at the base, tipped with crisp white. This contrast creates a 'checkered' or 'stippled' appearance that is highly eye-catching. The plant maintains a neat, upright habit and produces a constant supply of flowers throughout the summer and autumn. In the UK, it is often used in mixed borders to provide late-season interest when other perennials are fading. It requires a sunny location and fertile soil to thrive. Like all dahlias, it is tender and the tubers need protection from British winter frosts. Mulching heavily in milder coastal areas might suffice, but lifting is the safest practice elsewhere. It is an excellent choice for those looking for something a bit different from the standard solid-coloured varieties, and it makes an exceptional cut flower.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Fertile, moist but well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct.