Kimble and Ellesborough Horticultural Society

Dahlias and Chrysanthemums are the stars of the Autumn Shows, providing a gorgeous display of colourful blooms.

General Information

Check the schedule for any requirements about, for example, the number of stems to display or the type or size of the blooms.

We are affiliated to the National Dahlia Society (NDS) which has some useful information on its website including the information below.

Classification A brief guide to the various groups together with a picture of an example.

Cultivation A short introduction to dahlias with an overview on:

• preparing for planting
• the planting operation
• early season care
• flowering
• exhibiting
• lifting and storing tubers
• preserving stock

Top 3 Growing tips for Dahlias which each have a downloadable pdf:

• Soil Preparation and Feeding Dahlias
• Growing Dahlias in the Garden
• Pests and Diseases

The dahlia classes are judged in accordance with the National Dahlia Society rules. 

The RHS Horticultural Show Handbook has prepared some information in consultation with NDS.  It states that, in general, blooms should be fresh and clean, all florets intact, firm and without blemish or defect.  Colour(s) should be clear and well-defined and either consistent or evenly shaded or tipped throughout the bloom.

Also, that the exhibit should be arranged so that all the blooms face in the same direction, are clear of each other and a pleasing and balanced effect is achieved.  Blooms should be staged with some dahlia foliage, preferably on the stem.  The foliage should be clean, healthy and undamaged.  

Sizing of various classes

This is an important criteria for some dahlia classes.  Check the KEHS Year Book where the maximum sizes of blooms will be specified where relevant.

Pointing

The NDS does not recommend using a scale of points for judging. 

Other Sources of Information

The Horticultural Show Handbook: RHS – the section on dahlias includes its classification guide, the merits judges look for in each category, and what would be seen as a defect.

The Great British Village Show: RHS - brief summary of merits, defects and most common judging criteria.

The NDS also have a number of books available on their website covering growing dahlias whether just for pleasure or for exhibiting and the latest information on the Classified Directory, Judging Rules and Exhibitors Guide from the NDS.

NDS UK Facebook page – active and interesting website with posts from all levels of enthusiasts