I'm trying to grow dahlias for the show. There's only 2 and a half weeks left, and somethings eating them. What can I do? HELP

Start Crying.

Dahlias have come in a bit early this year and I will be surprised if there are many displayed at this years horticultural show (August Bank Holiday Weekend).

Earwigs are often a culprit for damage. they hide in the end of bamboo canes. If you get a small, narrow piece of stick (a green stick used by garden centres for displaying plants is ideal) and poke it into the end of the bamboo cane you might kill a few that way.

Alternatively, putting a bit of grease on the stems might stop the critters climbing up to the bloom, but be careful to wipe of any trace of this before the show as they will mark you down.

If you live near an allotment, go down and see if there are any Dahlias growing there. If there is, go in and ask for advice. There is usually a wealth of Horticultural knowledge pottering about on allotment sites and if you smile sweetly they might be encouraged to share.

Well, my dahlias didn't do too well, but did you see some of those blooms!  Blooming marvellous