To plant dahlia bulbs (tubers), follow these steps:
- Timing and Location
- Plant dahlias after the last frost when soil temperature is at least 60ºF (15°C) to avoid cold damage
* Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight and well-drained, fertile soil
- Soil Preparation
- Prepare the soil by mixing in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage
* Ensure the soil is loose and free-draining.
- Planting Depth and Orientation
- Dig holes 4-6 inches deep and wide enough to spread the tubers out like fingers
* Place the tuber with the "crown" or the point where tubers connect a few inches below the soil surface
* Position the tuber so that any visible buds or "eyes" face upward, as this is where stems will grow
- Spacing
- Space tubers about 12-18 inches apart for large varieties, and about 12 inches or less for smaller, compact types
* Generally, spacing around 18 inches (45 cm) is recommended for most dahlias
- Backfilling and Watering
- Gently cover the tubers with soil, ensuring they are completely covered by a few inches of soil
* Do not water immediately after planting unless the soil is very dry, to prevent tuber rot
* Once shoots appear, begin watering regularly
- Staking
- For taller or large-flowered dahlias, insert a sturdy stake at planting time to support growth
- Additional Tips
- For earlier growth, dahlias can be started indoors in pots filled with peat-free, multi-purpose compost in early spring, then hardened off before transplanting outside after frost risk passes
* Pinch out shoots when about 10-16 cm tall to encourage bushier plants and more blooms
By following these guidelines, your dahlia tubers will be well positioned to grow healthy, vibrant flowers throughout the growing season.
