Dahlia tubers should be planted about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 cm) deep in well-drained, fertile soil. The tuber itself should be covered with soil so that the buds or "eyes" on the tuber shafts are just lightly covered or just below the soil surface, allowing the old stem or shoot point to be near soil level for sprouting
. Key planting details include:
- Dig a hole about 4-6 inches deep to accommodate the tuber
- Place the tuber with the eyes or growth points facing upwards or on its side with the eyes up
- Cover the tuber with soil so that the buds are just lightly covered, or the old stem is right at soil level-not buried too deep
- Space tubers about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart depending on variety
- Plant after the last frost when soil is warm, ideally above 60°F (15°C)
Planting too deep can delay or inhibit sprouting, so it is best to keep the tuber shallow enough for shoots to emerge easily
. Once planted, water well and mulch to retain moisture and protect young shoots
. In summary, plant dahlia tubers about 10 cm deep, covering the tuber but keeping the buds or old stem near the soil surface for optimal growth.
