How to Separate Dahlia Tubers
The dahlia is a type of perennial flower found growing throughout North America. Dahlias are typically grown for ornamental purposes, favored for their large, round flowers that come in a range of shades. Dahlias are low-maintenance plants that can be grown in various climates. Propagate your current dahlia plant by splitting its underground tubers, which can be planted to start new dahlia plants. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Dahlia plant
- Shovel or spade
- Knife
- Garden fungicide powder
- Cardboard box
- Newspaper
Instructions
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Dig out the dahlia tuber mass. Small dahlia plants may be uprooted using a small garden shovel, while larger dahlia plants may need a large spade. Brush off the dirt. Typically, you will face a plant stem from which several dahlia tubers are hanging.
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2
Use a knife to cut and separate the individual tubers. Cut so that the single stem is split up between each of the tubers. For example, a dahlia stem with four connected tubers will need to be dissected into fourths, with a piece of stem connected to each underground tuber.
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3
Dust the cut portion of the stem and tuber with plant fungicide powder. This helps to prevent fungus growth and rot on the cut dahlia stem.
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4
Replant the dahlia tubers. Sink the tubers vertically into loose, well-drained soil so that the cut stem appears just above the surface of the dirt. Water twice daily, keeping the soil moist. A new dahlia shoot will appear from the tuber at the joint where the old stem meets the tuber.
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Store the tubers if you do not wish to replant them. Dahlia tubers can be separated and stored during the winter for replanting in the spring. Rinse the tubers with fresh water to remove all dirt. Allow the tubers to air-dry thoroughly. Wrap each tuber in newspaper and place them a box in a cool, dry and dark location such as your basement.
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Tips & Warnings
Monitor your stored dahlia tubers. If they appear to be drying up and shriveling, sprinkle them with water to restore some of the moisture.
