Dahlia Tubers
Sale begins on Saturday January 10th at 9am EST! Local pickup and shipping are available. Orders will begin shipping in April.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dahlia tuber?
Some flowers grow from seeds, some grow from bulbs, and dahlias grow from tubers! A dahlia tuber is the underground storage root that grows into a dahlia plant. When planted, it will produce foliage, blooms, and eventually more tubers. A dahlia tuber looks similar to a small potato.
Are your dahlia tubers divided or clumps?
All tubers are sold as individual, viable tubers with at least one visible eye or growth point, unless otherwise noted.
Will my tuber have an “eye”?
Yes! Every tuber is carefully inspected before shipping to ensure it has a viable eye. Some eyes may be small or not yet sprouted at shipping time.
What is a dahlia tuber eye?
The “eye” is the small growth point on a dahlia tuber where the plant’s stem and leaves will emerge. The eyes usually look like small swollen pimples. Eyes are typically found near the crown (where the tuber was attached to the main stalk). Without an eye, a tuber will not grow. Some eyes are very small or not visible at shipping time but will develop as the tuber warms up.
When should I plant my dahlia tubers?
Plant tubers after the danger of frost has passed and once soil temperatures reach about 60°F. Planting too soon can result in loss of tubers due to freezing and/or rot.
How much sun do dahlias need?
Dahlias thrive in full sun, ideally receiving 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
How often should I water dahlia tubers?
If the ground is wet when planting, do not water until you see the shoots emerge. If the soil is dry upon planting, you can water a small amount. Once growing, water deeply 2–3 times per week, depending on weather and soil conditions. Dahlias need about 1 inch of water per week (more if the weather is hot and dry.
Do my dahlias need to be staked?
Yes! Staking is highly recommended, especially for taller dahlia varieties. Placing a stake next to the tuber at planting time helps support the plant as it grows. Dahlias can become tall and top-heavy once they begin flowering, and gently tying the stem to the stake as it grows helps prevent bending or breakage during strong winds or when blooms become especially abundant.
Do I need to pinch my dahlia plants?
Pinching is optional but encouraged. Pinching the center of the plant when they are about 12–16 inches tall promotes bushier plants and more blooms.
Are dahlias perennials?
In zones 7 and below, dahlias are prone to freezing and rot once the temperatures drop. The tubers must be dug up and stored over winter to replant the following year.
What should I do with my tubers once they arrive?
When your tubers arrive, open the package right away and inspect them. Tubers may look a little wrinkled from shipping, which is normal. Store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight until planting time. If you’re not ready to plant yet, keep tubers in breathable packaging (like paper or wood shavings) and avoid excess moisture. Do not wash or soak tubers before planting.
How do I plant my dahlia tubers?
Plant dahlia tubers after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to 60 degrees. Dig a hole about 4–6 inches deep and place the tuber horizontally with the eye facing up, if visible. Space tubers at least 18 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and growth. You may add a small amount of bone meal to the planting hole to support healthy root development. Cover with soil and water lightly. Avoid heavy watering until shoots emerge.
What if my tuber arrives damaged?
If your tuber arrives severely damaged or moldy, contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos so we can help resolve the issue.