Plant Dahlia Tubers

When to Plant: Late spring
At Their Best: Midsummer to fall
Time to Complete: 30 minutes for planting

Materials Needed:

• dahlia tubers
• organic matter, such as finished compost
• slug rings or organic pellets
• stakes and twine for staking

• wooden boxes
• potting mix
• plant labels

Plant the Tubers

Once the danger of frost has passed, dig a hole 12 inches deep and add a layer of organic matter in the bottom. Place the tuber in the hole with the buds pointing up, as well as a stake for support, and carefully refill with soil.

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Pinch Out Shoot Tips

Provide slug protection as young growth appears. When stems are 12 inches high, pinch out the top bud to encourage bushiness and lots of flowers.

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Frost Protection

As soon as the first light frost has blackened the leaves, cut off the foliage and dig up the tubers. Place them somewhere airy and frost free, so the stems can dry out fully.

Enlarge Photo+Shrink Photo-DK - How to Grow Practically Everything © 2010 Dorling Kindersley Limited