Dahlia novice

I bought this rather fine specimen on the spur of the moment at the weekend, and then found out that they are not very strong and need to be in a sheltered spot.

We have 40 kph winds forecast early tomorrow so I've tried to make it sturdier by tying it together around a cane.  

I hope it will survive - but if not I've got this photo as a reminder not to buy another one.