Dahlia 'Free Thought' is a refined ball-type dahlia prized for its elegant, pristine white to creamy-ivory blooms. Its perfectly formed spherical flowers often feature a soft golden hue at the centre, making it a versatile choice for both garden borders and sophisticated cut flower arrangements.
Key Characteristics
- Flower Type & Colour: A decorative ball dahlia with tightly packed, rounded petals in a brilliant off-white. Flower heads typically grow up to 10cm in diameter.
- Height: Reaches an eventual height of approximately 90cm to 1m (36-40 inches).
- Bloom Period: Prolific flowering from July until the first autumn frosts.
- Usage: Its sturdy stems and clean colour make it a top choice for cut flowers. It works well in the middle of mixed beds or in large containers.
Cultivation and Care
- Sun & Soil: Thrives in full sun and well-sheltered spots. Requires fertile, organic-rich soil that is moist but well-drained.
- Planting: Plant tubers roughly 10-15cm deep in late spring (March to May) after the risk of frost has passed. Space tubers approximately 45-60cm apart.
- Early Starts: For earlier blooms, tubers can be started indoors in pots or boxes during April before being moved outside in late May or June.
- Overwintering: These tubers are borderline hardy. In most UK regions, they should be lifted in autumn after the first frost and stored in a cool, frost-free location.