As well as the National Dahlia Society, which caters for both amateur and professional growers alike, there is a trade organisation known as the British Dahlia Growers Association.
Modern varieties, without doubt, are really wonderful, both in formation and in the period and length of blooming. The majority of giant varieties have originated overseas, although we have several raisers of these varieties within the confines of the British Isles, notably that doyen of the dahlia, Mr Harry Stredwick, whose giants are famous the world over.
Australia and America in particular have produced some really wonderful varieties which are to be seen in every keen grower’s garden. The medium and small varieties, up to a few years ago, were, in the main, of native origin, but of late years we have seen a gradual influx of varieties from other countries. Holland, in particular, is responsible for a really wonderful range of medium cactus which have literally revolutionised this very attractive section. But France, Germany, South Africa, Australia and the Iron Curtain countries, plus a whole host of other nations, have all sent varieties which are grown enthusiastically, so that it is perhaps invidious to even imply that any country excels in this particular phase.
Scotland also has its own society. This society, the Scottish National Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society, organises at least one big show each year, usually at the Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, and also issues a classified list of varieties. This in the main is similar to that of the National Society but omits many varieties in the major list, adding a number of others of Scottish origin.
There is a great deal to he said in favour of this change because the smaller bloomed varieties are most attractive in the garden. They bloom early, have a very wide range of colour and are extremely free flowering. They are ideal in fact for the small garden where each plant has to play such a large part in the colour scheme. Then too they are ideal for use as cut flowers for house decoration, lasting quite well in water and supplying a constant stream of replacements.
The National Dahlia Society presents a Gold Medal to the outstanding seedling of the year: this, however, is not awarded if, in the opinion of the committee, no dahlia is worthy. These honours are much sought after, as they are the hall-mark of a great dahlia, one which can be bought and sold with confidence.
