Potting Up Dahlia Tubers for Planting Outside in May
Spring is in the air, and it’s time to start thinking about getting your garden ready for the summer months. If you’re a fan of dahlias, now is the time to start potting up your tubers in the greenhouse so they’re ready to be planted outside in May.
Step 1: Preparing the Tubers
Before you start potting up your dahlia tubers, you need to prepare them. First, remove any damaged or diseased tubers. Then, cut the tubers into pieces, each with at least one eye. The eyes are small, brown bumps on the tubers where new growth will emerge.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Pots
When choosing pots for your dahlia tubers, make sure they’re large enough to accommodate the tubers’ growth. The pots should also have drainage holes to prevent the tubers from rotting.
Step 3: Potting Up the Tubers
Fill the pots with multi-purpose compost mixed with added John Innes. Then, place the tuber pieces in the pots, eye-side up. Cover the tubers with compost, and water them well.
Step 4: Caring for the Tubers
Place the pots in a warm, sunny spot in the greenhouse. Keep the compost moist but not soggy. The tubers will start to sprout in a few weeks.
Step 5: Planting Outside
In May, when the risk of frost has passed, you can plant your dahlia tubers outside. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Plant the tubers at the same depth they were in the pots. Water them well, and mulch around the plants to help retain moisture.
Tips for Growing Dahlias
- Dahlias are heavy feeders, so fertilize them regularly throughout the growing season.
- Pinch out the tips of the stems when the plants are young to encourage bushier growth.
- Stake tall dahlia plants to prevent them from falling over.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
With a little care, your dahlia tubers will produce beautiful flowers that will add color and beauty to your garden all summer long.
Ciaran The Gardener 