If you've ever dreamed of a garden full of bold, beautiful blooms, dahlias are your go-to flower. Known for their vibrant colors and show-stopping shapes, dahlias are surprisingly easy to grow. Especially when you start with healthy, field-grown tubers like the ones we raise right here at Windblume Farms in Gladwin, Michigan.
Whether you're a beginner or a backyard flower fanatic, this guide will walk you through how to plant dahlia tubers the right way that bursts with color all Summer long.
Step 1: Wait for Warm Soil
Dahlias are sensitive to frost, so timing is everything. In Zone 5b, where we farm, the best time to plant is after your last expected frost - usually in late May. The soil should be at least 60 degrees fahrenheit for tubers to sprout successfully.
Pro tip: If you're unsure, wait until your tomatoes and peppers are safe to plant - dahlias love the same warm soil.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
Dahlias thrive in:
- Full sun (6-8 hours per day)
- Well-drained, fertile soil
- Sheltered spots away from strong wind
Amend your soil with compost or aged manure to give your tubers the nutrients they need to grow strong.
Step 3: Planting Your Tubers
- Dig a hole six inches deep
- Lay the tuber horizontally, with the "eye" (small sprouting bump) facing up
- Space tubers 12-18 inches apart
- Cover with soil, but don't water right away! Wait until green growth appears to avoid rot
Step 4: Support Early, Pinch Later
Once your dahlias are 8-12 inches tall:
- Add stakes or supports to prevent flopping
- Pinch the top growth to encourage bushier plants and more blooms
You'll start to see blooms mid to late Summer and, if you cut them often, they'll keep producing!
Dahlias are annuals in Zone 5B. If you want your dahlias to come back every year, you'll need to dig up and store your tubers over Winter. It's a bit of work, but these beauties are worth it!
Why Choose Windblume Dahlia Tubers?
At Windblume Farms, we grow and dig every dahlia tuber by hand with care and attention. We're passionate about helping gardeners of all levels experience the joy of growing dahlias - whether you're building a cut flower garden or just planting a few in the backyard.
Ready to Grow?
We will have limited quantities while we continue to grow our fields. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know when we have tubers available!