Dahlias, native to Mexico, offer a wide variety of colors from pink, red, yellow, white, lavender, and orange, to variegated and bi-colored. Flower size ranges from 2 to 10 inches across. Smaller dahlia varieties (1-2 feet tall) and miniatures do best in our area.
Dahlias should be planted between mid-March and May. Here are some planting tips:
- Soil should have good drainage and be amended with organic materials before planting.
- Dahlias can grow in partial shade to full sun; the more shade, the taller dahlias will grow.
- Plant the tubers 3-5 inches deep in sandy soil and 2-4 inches deep in clay soil.
- Space miniature dahlias 12 to 18 inches apart and the 1-2 foot varieties 24-30 inches apart.
- Plant tubers horizontally, pointing the sprout up.
- Place stakes at the time of planting to give the dahlias support as they grow.
- Fertilize right after planting, then every four weeks through the growing season with a 1-3-2 ratio fertilizer.
- Pinch out the top of the plant when it reaches 12 inches, to make it sturdier, with more branches and blooms.
Carol Runnels, Smith County Master Gardener
Between mid-October to mid-November, dahlia tubers should be dug and stored for the winter. Start by working the soil about 12 inches out from the stem to loosen the feeder roots. Cut the dahlia stem off. Then remove the dahlia from the ground by placing a shovel under the clump and lifting carefully. Turn the clump upside down to drain any water out of the stem. Wash the clumps with a hose and leave them out for several hours to harden.
You can also cut dahlia clumps now to increase the number of plants. Each division needs to have a piece of the crown with an eye. Treat cut divisions with sulfur. Dry them 24 hours but don't dry on concrete because it draws out water and promotes shriveling.
An indelible marker can be used to identify your tuber variety. Then place in a sealable plastic bag with vermiculite or slightly moistened sand for storage. Layer plastic bags in a double brown paper bag or a cardboard box. Place where temperature will remain between 40-45 degrees.
In February, move dahlia tubers to room temperature but leave them in the dark to encourage eye development. Add a teaspoon of water to each quart-size bag about 15 days before replanting. In our area, dahlia tubers can be planted between mid-March and May.
Carol Runnels, Smith County Master Gardener
Annual & Perennial Flowers Index
Gardening Tips For NorthEast Texas Index
East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Home Page