Dahlias, for the most part, have very specific planting conditions. Read on to learn where, when and how to plant and space the flower.
Plant dahlia tubers as soon as the danger of frost no longer exists, which occurs mid to late spring in most areas. Allow 2 to 3 feet between tubers for tall dahlias (4 to 5 feet), 2 feet between for medium plants (3—4 feet) and 15 inches between for shorter ones.
New growth comes from eyes at the base of the previous year’s stem. Each stem has several tuberous roots. These can be planted as a clump or divided into single tubers.
In the planting bed insert a 1-inch square stake long enough to support tall plants. In front of it, dig a 6-inch-deep hole. Prepare a mixture of half peat moss and half soil, and incorporate about a handful of bone meal. Fill the hole with this mixture to a level that will bring the tuber’s eye to about 2 inches below the surface. Place the tuber in front of the stake with the eye against it. Cover the tuber to ground level with the soil and peat moss mixture. Firm the soil gently over the tuber. Except in extremely arid regions, do not water until new growth begins. Make sure to label the stake as well.
Tubers can also be started into growth ahead of time indoors. If more plants are needed, divide tubers when the new shoots are about one-half-inch tall. Harden the plants before planting out.
The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc./GID
Dahlias should be planted in mid to late spring.
