Growing Dahlias

Dahlias are exceptionally rewarding plants to cultivate. Even the smallest tubers can yield large, healthy plants and vibrant blooms. There is no need to overcomplicate the process; simply plant them, observe their growth, and enjoy the beauty they bring.

Select a full sun location for planting your tubers, ensuring the soil is loose, fertile, and well-draining. Dahlias are heavy feeders, so adding compost and fertilizer will provide beneficial amendments.

Dahlias are frost-sensitive; do not plant them until the risk of frost has passed. I typically use Labor Day weekend as a guideline.

Plant the tubers on their side, 10-15 cm deep, ensuring the shoot or eye is facing upward.

Cover the tubers with soil and refrain from disturbing them.

Do not water at this stage.

If staking is necessary, now is the appropriate time to do so.

New shoots may require protection from slugs and snails.

Once the plant has developed about 3 to 4 sets of leaves, pinch out the central growth tip. This practice encourages bushier plants and promotes more blooms.

Feed the plants regularly throughout the season. A foliar seaweed spray every couple of weeks, along with a low-nitrogen fertilizer applied several times during the season, is recommended.

Regular deadheading and harvesting will stimulate additional blooms. Cut deeply into the plant to encourage longer stems; some varieties may benefit from the removal of side buds.

Autumn is the peak flowering season, as the shortening days signal the plants to begin slowing down. You may observe changes in bloom color and more open centers.

Continuing to deadhead will assist in tuber production.

Most dahlias will bloom until the first frost. Alternatively, you can cut them back to one-third of their height to encourage dormancy. Depending on your climate and soil conditions, some may opt to lift their tubers for winter storage.