Dahlias

Apologies if this topic has been done to death, but I need a conclusive answer. I'm trying to grow a Dahlia this summer, first time ever and need to know when to plant the tuber. Its one of those that comes in a plastic packet, with vent holes and its started sprouting already (been kept in the dark).

So...when to plant? I have no greenhouse, so would prefer to be able to plant straight out - its one that is "suitable for a patio pot" but from my reading on them, Dahlias need a lot of water. I have enough things on the patio to water in summer without adding another one:D

 

I planted some Dahlias for a client last Saturday Aaron. Though it was against my advice. I would personally hold back on planting at least until the end of the month. But, you need to get the plant out of that bag, so, I would say plant it now. Just keep an eye on it and DO NOT overwater.:thumb:

 

I reckon you could plant it in a large pot, or a deep-ish tray, of compost to start it off in a cool shed / garage. The cool temperature would stop it advancing too quickly, but it would be sprouting under the soil.

Bit of a balancing act because it is using energy to sprout, and if you prevent it seeing any light it can't create any energy for itself.

Once planted out it must be protected from frost. maybe in Sussex all fear of frost is past? in which case outside is fine (and in any event there is no danger UNTIL the plant starts sprouting above the soil - so, like Spuds, you could earth it up a bit if it pokes through the surface and frosts are forecast.

But a better plan would be to buy a greenhouse for next year

 

A bigger garden would be of more use!

I've decided to wait until after Easter to be sure of no more cold temperatures at night then plant it out.

Thanks guys

 

I think your OK planting now, by the time it surfaces the frosts should be gone.

 

"by the time it surfaces the frosts should be gone"

I agree. Just watch weather forecast for late frosts and earth up if that happens. We have had 11 nights with frosts in the last 5 years which were later than 10th April. I can live with the hassle of caring for the plants on the odd occasions that that happens.

 

It may or may not help this, but mine are in now as I personally don't expect any more frosts-certainly none of any duration even if it dips once or twice so I'll sub this hread and keep it updated. I have been told that you don't need to lift them, don't know how true that is but I will be doing that with gladioli too.

I may lift the dahlais to divide the tubers out of greed but other than that I will be leaving them in.

 

"I may lift the dahlias to divide the tubers"

I'm sure you know this, but just in case not you can't just "divide the tubers" they need some stem with them, and that needs to happen in the Spring (put them in a tray with compost, force them to sprout, and then cut a bit of stem with shoot plus tuber. Or just take the shoots as cuttings)

Now you can tell me to shut up 'coz you aren't a granny and/or don't want to suck eggs!

 

P.S. Although I don't grow any Dahlias, back when my Mum and I did we always lifted them for the Winter. And I've always lifted by Glads too.

 

I've tried Dahlias in the past and never got them above ground, this year I have them in pots in the greenhouse and they are starting to grow. I also have some dahlia seeds planted that should apparently bloom this year...I hope so!

Steve...

 

I do both - leave some in the ground, and dig others up to overwinter in the shed. They all do well.
The ones in the shed have been potted up and are currently in the greenhouse. No sign of life on any of them yet, outdoors, or in, but I don't expect to see any growth until after Easter.
PS: I've always found them very easy to grow from seed.