Dahlia Bishop of Dover Dahlia Bishop of Dover is a single flowered variety with rich dark, nearly black leaves. The abundant single flowers are white, flushed with pale pink or violet and stand out magnificently against the dark foliage. Single flowered dahlias are superb for bees and other insects. As with most dahlia plants it flowers freely if deadheaded regularly. Dahlia Bishop of Dover should be planted in sunny sheltered locations in free draining humus rich soils. Incorporating well-rotted manure or compost is beneficial. On heavier soils incorporate sand and/or grit and compost to aid drainage. Plant tubers outside from April onwards or for earlier flowers plant in pots in a greenhouse or conservatory in March. Protect fresh growth from late frosts. Taller varieties may need extra support with canes and twine. Dahlia plants will flower from July right through to the first frosts. Dahlia tubers need frost protection during the winter. In warmer drier gardens it is possible to leave them in the ground otherwise lift the Dahlia tubers and store them somewhere dry and frost free.
