Dahlia

Dahlias were throughout my Step Grandfather's life a plant that had to be dug out in the autumn, dried off and then stored, wrapped in old newspaper, in wooden trays at the back of the potting shed. Each spring they were then inspected and those with good tubers were replanted.

Over the past 20 years or so they have become more resistant to cold and have virtually become perennial plants that can be left out in the garden, secure in the knowledge that they will start growing again in the spring. They have been 'grown' to reflect new and different shapes and colours. Spotted this in a neighbours garden; black stems and leaves seem to have become very popular.

My four plants have been dug out, wrapped up in old newspaper and packed away in the shed; in a plastic try. Hopefully to see another year!