How to Plant Dahlias

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (7 Ratings)

Dahlias are the unsurpassed darlings of the summer garden. Their spectacular color and exotic shapes make them stand out in a border or bed. Their hardiness and low maintenance make them a favorite with gardeners all over the country.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Organic Compost
  • Shovel
  • trowel
  • super-phosphate fertilizer

Step1
Purchase quality dahlia tubers in spring. Select tubers that are large, free of nicks, cuts or signs of rot. They should feel firm when gently squeezed between your fingers.
Step2
Select a planting location that receives full sun. It's very important to wait until the soil has warmed before you plant dahlia tubers in the ground. April or May, depending on your region, is an ideal time to plant. Planting in cool soil will stunt the growth and the plants will languish.
Step3
Amend the soil with organic compost prior to planting. The compost should be worked into the existing soil to a depth of 18 inches. Dahlias grow quickly and require excellent growing conditions to perform at their best.
Step4
Dig a large planting hole that is at least twice as deep as the length of the dahlia tuber, deeper if possible and equally as wide. Add a tablespoon of super-phosphate fertilizer to the bottom of each planting hole. The fertilizer will provide the nutrients necessary to develop root growth.
Step5
Place the tuber in the bottom of the hole and fill in the soil only to the top of the stem. The hole should remain partially filled with just the top of the stem sticking up until you begin to see growth.
Step6
Fill in the hole gradually to cover the new growth as the tuber begins to grow. Covering the stem inch by inch as it grows causes the stem to grow strong so that it will support the flowers.
Step7
Begin watering when the plants are actively growing aboveground. Water deeply to encourage strong roots.

Tips & Warnings

  • Dahlias are available in a multitude of varieties. There are tree dahlias, miniatures, dwarf and hybrids. The flower forms are; anemone, collarette, orchid, peony, balls, cactus and singles.
  • Larger varieties may need to be staked as the plants grow. Use bamboo or plastic stakes placed on either side of the plant for support. A tomato cage can also provide support - install it when the plant is still small.
  • When staking dahlias, be careful to not pierce the tubers.
  • Dahlias require regular, deep watering. Uneven watering will cause burnt leaves and weak stems.

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article:  How to Plant Dahlias

eHow Home & Garden Editor

eHow Home & Garden Editor

Category: Home & Garden

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads

Grow Dinner Plate Dahlias

How to Grow Dinner Plate Dahlias
By: eHow Home & Garden Editor


Care for Dahlias

How to Care for Dahlias
By: eHow Home & Garden Editor


Detect and Prevent Botrytis

How to Detect and Prevent Botrytis
By: eHow Home & Garden Editor


Dig and Store Dahlia Tubers

How to Dig and Store Dahlia Tubers
By: eHow Home & Garden Editor


Store Flower Bulbs

How to Store Flower Bulbs
By: eHow Home & Garden Editor


Home & Garden

Willi
Meet Willi Galloway eHow’s Home & Garden Expert.