Planting Instructions:
At Dynomite Farm, we’re thrilled you’ve chosen our dahlia tubers to bring vibrant beauty to your garden. Dahlias are incredibly versatile, with heights ranging from 1.5 to 6 feet, and blooms that span from petite “golf balls” to impressive “dinner plates.” The American Dahlia Society recognizes 20 distinct flower forms and a spectrum of colors, including solids, blends, and variegated patterns. With thoughtful care, your dahlias will reward you with stunning blooms throughout the season.
Selecting a Site:
Dahlias flourish in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Aim for a location that receives about 8 hours of direct sunlight daily; however, some afternoon shade is acceptable.
Soil Preparation:
Enrich your soil with organic matter to provide a nourishing environment for your dahlias. Incorporate compost and bone meal to enhance fertility. Before planting, apply an organic fertilizer that supplies essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Options such as composted manure or a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5) are excellent choices. We use entirely organic amendments here at Dynomite Farm. Integrate these amendments into the soil at least two weeks prior to planting. If using a slow-release organic fertilizer, apply it after planting to ensure a steady nutrient supply.
Planting:
To encourage sprouting before planting, place your tubers in a tray, cover them lightly with dampened vermiculite, and set the tray in a warm spot. A seedling heat mat is ideal, but the top of a refrigerator can also suffice. Some varieties sprout within a week, while others may take longer.
Once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed, it’s time to plant. Dig holes 6 to 8 inches deep and space them 20 to 24 inches apart. Mix a tablespoon of bone meal into the soil at the bottom of each hole, then add a couple of inches of soil on top. If staking is necessary, insert the stakes before planting to avoid damaging the tubers. Lay the tuber horizontally about 6 inches deep, with the eye or sprout facing up. Partially fill the hole, adding more soil as the plant grows.
Watering:
Avoi watering at planting time as watering can lead to rot. Once sprouts appear above ground, begin watering deeply once or twice a week, especially during warm, dry periods. Apply water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry and reduce the risk of disease.
Fertilizing:
Overfeeding with high-nitrogen fertilizers can result in weak stems and small blooms. Opt instead for organic fertilizers with balanced nutrients, such as a 5-10-10 formulation. Apply fertilizer within 30 days of planting and repeat about six weeks later. Cease fertilizing by mid-September to allow the plants to prepare for dormancy.
By following these guidelines, you’ll create an environment where your Dynomite Farm tubers will bloom into amazing dahlia blooms, bringing vibrant color and joy to your garden.
