Although dahlias can be started from seed or cuttings, it is common for home gardeners in this part of the world to plant dahlias from divided dahlia tubers. Depending on local springtime weather conditions, we find anytime around the middle of May onwards a good time to start planting tubers.

Tubers should be planted horizontally, with the eye of the tuber facing up and covered with 3 - 4" of soil. For dahlias that attain a height of 3' or more, it is advisable to place a support stake in the ground at the time of planting. We prefer to plant 2 tubers per stake (1 on each side about 4" from the stake).

We also label the stake with the dahlia name. Larger varieties can be planted about 4' apart. Smaller varieties can be planted at a distance of say 3'.

Strong support stakes are necessary for the taller varieties. I use pressure treated deck boards (1 inch thick) and rip them to 1 inch widths and point the bottoms. Many growers use epoxy coated rebar, 2X2's painted a nice green color. Peony and tomato cages work well on shorter plants.