Dahlia Growing Guide

Welcome to the wonderful world of Dahlia growing, we think you’re going to like it here!

For tuber storage and growing, read on - for Dahlia seed starting tips - jump to the end!

On arrival - Check your tubers for damages in the post and notify us immediately if you discover a problem. Store your dahlia tubers in a cool, well ventilated and dry place until it’s time to plant them.

Please note that we are sending out both active and dormant tubers in 2025.  If you don't spot an eye, please don't worry!! Even seasoned growers can find it difficult to spot eyes when tubers are dormant. Tubers come in a wide range of wacky shapes and sizes, as long as your tuber does not appear to have a broken neck* - it is a viable tuber. (*Some tubers don't have necks - just big bodies and a smidge of crown.) Some tubers may have been cut in half and treated with sulphur powder on larger cuts, some may look wrinkly, some will be dirty, some will be washed. They are all equally viable :)

 

The ideal place to store your tubers is in a garden shed, garage, or unheated storage space where you can check on them periodically to make sure they aren’t drying out too much. An ideal storage medium for tubers is dry potting mix / vermiculite or coco peat coir in a styrofoam box with lid off / slightly open.

Growing Dahlias is as easy as 1 - 2 -3!

Step 1 - Plant your tubers on their side with eyes facing up 10cm - 15cm deep after danger of frost has passed, and wait until you see leaves emerge before watering.

Step 2 - When you have 2 true sets of leaves or your plant is 10cm - 20cm high, pinch the top set of leaves off your plant to encourage side shoots. More shoots = more flowers!

Step 3 - Enjoy! Remember to cut your flowers regularly to encourage more blooms.


Dahlia Seed Starting

Raise dahlia seeds in individual seed trays using a good quality seed starting mix in Spring / early Summer. 

Fill tray with seed mix, then tap indents into each tray approx 5mm deep. Place individual seeds in each depression and cover lighting with more seed raising mix. Water gently using a mist setting. Don't forget to check on and water your seedlings as needed.

Once your seedling has developed 4 sets of leaves and is approx 10cm tall, pinch out the two central leaves to encourage branching. Plant out in the garden once danger of frost has passed. 

 

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