Dahlias are known for their vibrant blooms that grace gardens in Australia from summer through autumn. These flowers come in a variety of sizes and styles, ranging from large and showy to small and delicate and in a vast array of breathtaking colours.

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Here are the key steps to growing successful dahlias (from tubers) in Australia:

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Preparation & Planting

To ensure optimal growth, dahlias should be planted in a location that receives full sun but they also appreciate protection from intense afternoon sun and strong winds.

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Prepare the soil by incorporating plenty of organic matter and fertiliser of choice. Make sure any irrigation systems are working and in place.

 

Dahlia tubers should be planted out in Spring once the risk of frost has passed. In South Eastern Australia a week or two on either side of Melbourne Cup day (early Nov) is a good guide. Plant tubers 10cm deep with any sprouts or eyes facing up. Don't worry if the tuber has a sprout that breaks off, it will grow back. Don't forget to add a stake and label.

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Dahlias can be grown in pots or grow bags, choose one that is at least 30cm in diameter. Be prepared to give extra fertiliser and water to potted dahlias to keep them at their best.

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Sprouts can often take several weeks to reach the surface so be patient!

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Fertilising & Watering

Dahlias have high water and fertiliser requirements to keep them producing beautiful blooms, however if you are able to keep up you will be rewarded with an abundance of flowers all season long.

Once the plants have reached around 5 sets of leaves, cut out the growing tip to encourage bushy growth and more flowers.

Once buds start to form, switch to a fertiliser specifically for flowers such a rose fertiliser to ensure potassium levels are being met.

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Pests & Diseases

New growth is vulnerable to attack from slugs, snails, earwigs and other insects. Protect with chosen bait or other methods.

Insects such as aphids, caterpillars, thrips, whitefly and mites can also be a problem so be sure to treat if you see an infestation starting.

 

Plant Care

Each year, dahlia plants generate a clump of fresh tubers. By lifting and dividing these tuber clumps annually, you can enhance the size and quality of your dahlia blooms. and share your excess.

Cut back the plants at the end of autumn and allow to die back, then carefully lift the clump, rinse of the soil and divide into smaller clumps or individual tubers making sure to ensure to include an "eye" on each piece to allow it to shoot next season. There is plenty of online resources available on how to dig, divide and store dahlia tubers.

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