When to Plant Dahlias? The Complete Guide

Dahlias are real eye-catchers in the garden thanks to their impressive colors and shapes. Whether you choose pompom, cactus, or decorative dahlias, these flowers are guaranteed to add ambiance to your garden. This guide will help you discover when and how best to plant, care for, and overwinter dahlias for spectacular blooms.

Interested in more plant guides? See also:

• When to plant which plants? Overview
• When to Plant Tulips? The Complete Guide
• When to Plant Lavender? The Complete Guide
• When to Plant Strawberries? The Complete Guide

When to plant dahlias?

Dahlias are best planted between April and June , when the risk of frost has completely passed. Dahlias are sensitive to cold, so don't plant them too early in the season. Want a head start? You can sow dahlias indoors in March and transplant them later.

How much space between plantings and why?

Dahlias need space to fully develop and promote air circulation. This prevents mold and promotes healthy growth.

• Distance between plants: Keep 40-50 cm for medium and large dahlias.
• Row spacing: Leave 60cm between rows for adequate air circulation.

How to plant dahlias?

Follow these steps for successful dahlia planting:

1. Choose the right location: Dahlias love a sunny spot. The more sunlight, the better they will bloom.
2. Prepare the soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and humus-rich. Add compost for a good nutrient base.
3. Planting depth: Plant the tubers 5-10 cm deep with the eyes (runners) facing up.
4. Provide support: Large dahlias can become top-heavy. Provide a sturdy support immediately upon planting to prevent breakage.
5. Watering: After planting, water generously and keep the soil moist but not soggy.

How do I recognize a dahlia tuber?

Dahlia tubers resemble a cluster of thick roots with a central "neck" from which new shoots emerge. Make sure the tubers are firm and healthy; soft or rotten tubers are unsuitable for planting.

How do I plant dahlias in the ground?

Dahlias thrive in the ground if you follow these guidelines:

• Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• Soil: Work compost or organic fertilizer into the soil for a rich nutrient base.
• Protection: If there is a risk of night frost, you can cover the young shoots with fleece.

Dahlia cuttings

Want to grow more dahlias without buying extra tubers? Then cuttings are a smart solution.

1. Cutting time: Cuttings are best taken in April-May .
2. Cuttings: Cut off young shoots of about 10-15 cm long.
3. Preparation: Remove the lower leaves and dip the bare part in rooting powder.
4. Planting: Place the cuttings in moist potting soil and keep the soil slightly moist.
5. Overwintering: After rooting, the cuttings can be planted in open ground.
   

Pruning and caring for dahlias

Regular maintenance is important for long and full flowering:

• Remove dead flowers: This encourages new flower buds and prolongs flowering.
• Prune before winter: After the first frost, the leaves die back. Prune the stems to a few centimeters above the ground.

Overwintering dahlias

Dahlias cannot overwinter in the ground and need some extra care:

1. Harvesting tubers: After the first frost, carefully dig up the tubers.
2. Cleaning: Shake off excess soil and let the tubers dry for a few days.
3. Storage: Store the tubers in a box with sawdust or dry sand in a cool, frost-free place.

Tips for a spectacular dahlia bloom

Want dahlias that steal the show in your garden? Follow these tips:

• Regular watering: Dahlias need sufficient moisture, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilizers: Provide liquid fertilizer regularly during growth for extra strong flowers.
• Remove side shoots: By cutting away side shoots, you direct the energy to the main flowers for extra large blooms.

Table: When to plant dahlias?

Plant	Best planting month	Annual?	Distance between plants	Can it hibernate?	Cutting time
Dahlias	April - June	1-year-old	40-50 cm	No	April - May

This guide will teach you exactly when and how to plant, cut, and care for dahlias for abundant summer blooms. Want to learn more about other plants? Be sure to check out our other guides via the links above. Best of luck in the garden!