You carefully lifted the dahlia tubers out of the ground with a digging fork in the fall and then left them to cool over the winter. Now spring is in full swing and it's time to wake the dahlias from hibernation.
How are dahlias brought out of hibernation?
When dahlia tubers come into contact withmoisture, they begin to sprout. Remove the tubers from their winter quarters and soak them in a bucket of water for about 12 hours. Alternatively, the tubers can be planted in soil and watered.
When does the overwintering of dahlia tubers end?
The storage or overwintering of the dahlia tubers should be completed inMarch. If the tubers are not to be driven but are to be planted directly in the bed, it is recommended that overwintering is not completed untilApril.
Which dahlia tubers should be sorted out?
Rotten tubers should be sorted out or, if possible, the rotten areas cut out. During the winter, some tubers may begin to rot. The cause is usually incorrect wintering, for example too much moisture. It is therefore advisable to wrap the tubers in newspaper for overwintering and to choose a cool but frost-free winter quarters.
Should dahlia tubers be disinfected?
It is advisable to disinfect the dahlia tubersbefore overwintering to avoid the tubers becoming diseased. After wintering, this is not absolutely necessary.
How are the tubers of dahlias woken up?
Soaking the dahlia tubers inwater will literally wake them up from hibernation. To do this, take a bucket, fill it with water and place the tubers in it. It is enough to let them soak for about 12 hours. During this time they soak up water and can then sprout more easily.
How do dahlias grow properly after awakening?
After soaking the dahlia tubers in water, you can put them in a pot with soil. Plant the tubers in the soil and place the pot in a bright but not too warm place. A bedroom window, for example, is well suited. If the outside temperature is not below 15 °C, you can also put the pot outside. However, the dahlia should be placed in the bed by the end of May at the latest.
Do dahlias need to be trained after overwintering?
Pushing the dahlias after overwintering isnot necessary, but recommended. Instead of pushing forward, you can plant the tubers directly into the bed towards the end of April/mid-May. Make sure the soil is not too wet!
Tip
Benefits of post-hibernation propulsion
By pushing the dahlias forward, the plants bloom in July and not in August. In addition, the plants are stronger and therefore less susceptible to snail damage.
