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Splitting Dahlia tubers

jenniedentonjenniedenton Posts: 9
in Plants
Hi
Novice dahlia grower here :-) I’ve just bought dahlia tubers and have so many questions! I’ve done lots of research and I’m totally confused.......

1) do I split the tubers? I’ll put a picture on this message
2) do I soak them or anything before I start them in pots?
3) do I water them when I plant them?
4) how deep do I plant them in the pot?
5) can I start them in pots now (end of March)?

Thanks so much!

Posts

  • punkdocpunkdoc Posts: 15,039
    There are so many different ways of doing the same thing, so you will get many answers. This is what I have done for the last 20 years or so.

    Tubers that size don't need splitting.
    I don't soak them.
    Plant in moist compost, but don't water, until you see growth.
    Plant with the growing point about 3 inches under the compost.
    I start min in a cold greenhouse in early to mid April.
    How can you lie there and think of England
    When you don't even know who's in the team

    S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
  • JennyJJennyJ Posts: 10,576
    1. No. If you've ordered, for example, 5 dahlias, you should get 5 of what you're holding in the photo.
    2. No need to soak.
    3. I water mine when I plant them but then not until they've started to grow. Others find that the moisture in the compost is enough. Up to you (and how damp/dry your compost is).
    4. There should be the remains of a stalk at the top (the end nearest your hand in the picture). I plant them so that the stalk is showing but all the tuber is below the surface.
    5. Yes, and keep them somewhere frost-free and light.
    Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Soil type: sandy, well-drained
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