Planting Guidelines
Pre-Planting Essentials
- Timing: Wait until the soil temperature reaches 60°F.
- Sunlight: Select a spot with full sun.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil to prevent tuber rot, the most common cause of failure.
Planting Steps
- Depth: Dig a hole 4" deep.
- Orientation: Lay the tuber on its side with the sprout (or "eye") facing up.
- Spacing: Place tubers 12–24" apart.
- Watering: Do not water until the first green shoots appear above the soil.
Care & Maintenance
- Staking: For taller varieties, provide a stake to prevent breaking and disease.
- Pest Control: Keep a close eye out for slugs, as they are particularly fond of young dahlia shoots.
Pro Tip: Success with dahlias is all about patience. Planting in warm, well-drained soil is the best way to ensure your tubers thrive rather than rot.