FEW SUBJECTS generate a more variable reaction than the “clipping” or “trimming” of dahlia blooms. At discussion I have seen otherwise sane exhibitors change colour and froth at the mouth, while others sit and say nothing, with some stating that if they had the time and patience they would probably try it for themselves. There is nothing in the rules about clipping blooms and as far as I can see it is classed the same as caterpillar or earwig damage.
Personally I have very little love for caterpillars or earwigs, but I have none for the scissors. I have attended lectures given by very good growers who have actually demonstrated the “ART” of trimming oversize blooms. One grower in particular grows a very large number of plants and should not need to do so.
The Perth Society hold tuition classes for dahlias each season and we encourage our beginners and novices to attend these lectures. We sometimes get the reaction from them that things are becoming too professional and some opt out quickly. If we had to add an extra night at our classes to demonstrate how to him blooms with scissors, that may be the finish. The one time I tried to “him” was in desperation when I cut a bloom of Grenidor Pastelle down to size. After half an hour I admitted defeat and consigned the flower to the bin, with the other two blooms going to the society plant sale.
An interesting situation could occur at some of our National Shows where the exhibitors also act as judges. One could be staging at the same table as a ‘SNIPPER” and be judging the blooms a few hours later. A difficult as well as interesting situation, I would say.
At present I think it is the exception rather than the rule
but who knows what may happen in the future if a win at all cost
mentality takes over. I personally cannot think of a foolproof
way of stopping the trend, but here’s hopping someone finds
the answer soon.