Description
Planting instructions
Planting dahlias
Dahlias can either be planted directly outdoors in a sunny location (either in the garden bed or in containers) from mid-May onwards. Alternatively, the tubers can be started indoors from March onwards in a frost-free environment and planted in the garden from mid-May onwards.
The dahlias are placed in a suitably wide hole, 5-10 cm deep, with the stem end facing upwards. The stem itself should only be minimally covered with soil.
caring for dahlias
As soon as the first green shoots appear on the dahlias, they can be watered. They should be staked, as the large blooms can easily break in wind or storms. When they reach a height of about 50 cm, it is recommended to pinch back the dahlias (i.e., cut off the main stem above a rosette of leaves) so that they branch out and produce more flowers. Regular deadheading and cutting for vases also extends the flowering period. Fertilize regularly with liquid fertilizer until autumn.
Digging up and overwintering dahlias
Dahlias are perennials but cannot tolerate frost. Therefore, after the first frost, the tubers should be carefully dug up with a hand fork and cleaned. Allow them to dry slightly and then store them in breathable boxes or cartons, separated by newspaper, in a frost-free, cool, and dry place, such as a cellar. Temperatures of around 10°C are ideal.
More tips on planting and care
- A short guide to planting, caring for and overwintering dahlias
- Designing with dahlias – The 5 most important tips and tricks
