Planting Dwarf Dahlia Bulbs

Dahlias are summer flowering plants that grow from tuberous roots.

Planting dwarf dahlia bulbs. Plant tubers in the springtime about the same time as you would your vegetable gardens or when the ground is warm enough to work up and play in daily. Dahlia plants grow and bloom best in full sun. Dahlias are summer blooming tubers that are generally only hardy in usda zones 7 11. Mass plant small tubers 30cm apart and larger 75 100cm.

Tall growing dahlias will need staking so it s a good idea to put the stake in at planting time when there s little chance of damaging the tubers. As well as coming in a rainbow of colors dahlia flowers can range in size from petite 2 inch lollipop style pompoms. Growing the flowers using dahlia seed vs. Picking a favorite dahlia is like going through a button box.

One year i realized that if i could grow a dwarf tree or bush in a tub i could cultivate any height of dahlia in a container. Bulbs may take a little more time but is a great way to extend your crop of the dazzlers. In autumn dig up the tubers and overwinter them in a frost free place such as a greenhouse or a shed. Dahlia tubers are common in nurseries and seed catalogs.

Dahlias are grown from tubers similar to a bulb but thin skinned like a potato. Dahlias require a fertile moist but well drained soil and a sunny sheltered spot. Plant them in a full sun location giving them 6 8 hours of direct sunlight and enjoy blooms all summer long. In the majority of the country dahlias must be planted each spring and then cut back and dug each fall after the first killing frost.

How to grow dahlias. Growing requirements of dahlia plants. Don t plant dahlia tubers too early they don t fare well in cold soil. Mix 1 part potting soil and 2 parts garden soil and fill the container approximately half way.

Plant them back in the ground from may onwards. Water the newly planted dahlia tubers. Lay the dahlia tuber horizontally in the container and add 4 6 in. While they are winter hardy in usda hardiness zones 7 to 10 they must be removed from the garden in colder hardiness zones and stored for the winter.

Plant dahlias in an area with full sun preferably morning sun. Related species include the sunflower daisy chrysanthemum and zinnia they grow from small tubers planted in the spring. Water well then leave them alone until growth is visible. Dahlias don t fare well in hot and tropical climates.

More on growing dahlias. Taller varieties need staking. Wait until the temperature of the soil has reached at least 60f. Use quality soil to grow healthy dahlias.

Of potting soil above the tuber. If they are left in the garden in colder areas they will be killed by freezing temperatures. Pat it down firmly. Plant dahlias in moist moderate climates.