TUBER CARE AND STORAGE

Dahlia Tuber Care Instructions

UPON RECEIPT:
Open each bag immediately and inspect every tuber. I inspect and photograph all tubers before shipping for my records, but if anything arrives damaged or you’re concerned, please email me at BloomsByRosewood@gmail.com

STORAGE:
After inspection (and taking your own photos if desired), leave the bags slightly open to prevent excess condensation and rot. Store in a cool, dark, dry place with temperatures between 55°–68°F. Avoid any area that could drop below 35°F—freezing will destroy the tubers. A closet or similar spot works well for temporary storage.

PLANTING:
Dahlias thrive in soil averaging 60°F and not overly wet. If heavy rain has fallen in the week before planting, cover the area with a tarp or waterproof material to dry the soil. Plant tubers 4–5 inches deep with the eye or sprout facing up. Don’t worry if there are multiple sprouts or if one ends up facing down—the plant will grow toward the sun. If the main sprout breaks off before planting, the tuber will produce new ones. Plant around the same time you’d set out tomatoes in your growing zone.

WATERING:
Do not water after planting until you see greenery above the soil. Excess moisture before roots establish can cause rot—too much water is the biggest threat to fresh tubers. Growth above ground signals a strong root system that can handle water safely. If heavy rain is forecast right after planting, cover rows with waterproof material to protect tubers, but remove it as soon as sprouts appear so they get sunlight. Use this only on overcast days—direct sun on tarps can overheat the soil. Research your local climate to decide if this method suits you.

PINCHING:
Pinch dahlias for bushier plants and more blooms: when the plant has 4–5 sets of leaves, remove the main stem. This redirects energy to side shoots, delaying blooms by a few weeks but yielding up to 10 times more flowers on thinner, easier-to-handle stems. Search YouTube for “pinching dahlias” tutorials.

FERTILIZING:
I apply Osmocote slow-release granules once per season when plants reach about 12 inches tall (around pinching time). See my link for this and other recommended products. Many fertilizers work well—choose what fits your needs and enjoy growing!