TUBER CARE:
• When you receive your tubers, please open the box and check on them.
• Some condensation in the bags is normal due to temperature shifts during shipping–simply crack the bags open to allow the moisture to dissipate. We do recommend leaving the tubers in the bag (reclose the bag once the condensation dissipates) with the pine shavings until it is time to plant. The bag maintains their moisture levels and the pine shavings help absorb any excess moisture build up.
• Store your in a cool place (40-45*, don’t let them freeze!). Warmer storage is okay but means your tubers will sprout sooner.

WHEN TO PLANT:
• We recommend waiting until the risk of frost is past for planting. You can search for “last frost date” and your zip code and use that as a guide!
• Dahlias prefer warm soil for getting started, about 55-60° is ideal. A little cooler will just slow their growth, warmer will accelerate it.
• Another reference is that you can plant your dahlia tubers once it is safe to plant tomatoes in your area. In the PNW, we typically try to plant in early to mid May

HOW TO PLANT:
• A single tuber planted in spring will multiply greatly over the course of the season, so be sure to dig and prepare a larger whole than you might think. 12” or so across is generally a good size, allowing your tuber clump to grow unencumbered.
• Plant tubers 4-6” deep in your prepared hole. You can add compost and/or 1/4c of organic fertilizer at planting, the plants will love it.
• Space your plants 12” apart for standard size dahlias, and 18-24” apart for dinnerplates.
• Plant tubers horizontally in the hole, with the eye(s) facing up. Cover with soil, press in gently & water lightly.
• Abstain from watering your dahlias again until the sprouts break through the soil to avoid the tubers rotting. If it is extremely dry you can water lightly again. All varieties will sprout at different times, so don’t panic if they don’t all pop up together!