Digging and Dividing Dahlia Tubers: Green Fingers' Guide for Home Gardeners

Dahlias are beloved by gardeners for their colourful blooms and long-lasting cut flowers. However, to keep your dahlias healthy and thriving, it's important to dig up and divide the tubers every few years. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of digging and dividing dahlia tubers, so you can ensure a healthy and vibrant display in your garden.

When to Dig Dahlia Tubers

Timing is key when it comes to digging up your dahlia tubers. The ideal time to dig them up is after the first frost, usually around late autumn. This is when the leaves will have turned yellow and the plant has gone dormant. If you live in an area with mild winters, you may be able to wait until early winter to dig up your tubers.

Preparing for Digging

Before you start digging, make sure you have the right tools on hand. You'll need a spade or fork, a pair of gardening gloves, and a container to store the tubers. You should also sterilize your tools to prevent the spread of disease. Mix one part bleach with nine parts water and soak your tools in the solution for at least five minutes before using.

Digging Up the Tubers

Using your spade or fork, dig around the base of the dahlia plant to loosen the soil. Gently lift the plant out of the ground, being careful not to damage the tubers. Remove any excess soil from the tubers and inspect them for damage or disease.

Dividing the Tubers

Once you've dug up your dahlia tubers, it's time to divide them. Start by removing the old stem and any small, shriveled tubers. Then, using a sharp, sterilized knife, divide the tubers into sections. Each section should have at least one tuber connected via its neck to a crown containing at least one "eye" or growth bud. Be sure to label each division with the variety name.

Curing and Storing the Tubers

After dividing your tubers, let them cure for a few days in a cool, dry place. This will allow any cuts or wounds to heal and reduce the risk of rot. Once they're dry, store the tubers in a container filled with dry peat moss or vermiculite. Be sure to label the container with the variety name and color, and store in a cool, dry place until spring.

Fertilising for Next Season

To ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms next season, it's important to fertilise your dahlias in the spring. Apply a high-quality, balanced granular fertiliser after planting and then maintain fertilisation using Green Fingers Dahlia Foliar Fertiliser, which contains a blend of nutrients specifically formulated for dahlia plants. Winter is also the perfect time to feed your soil with Green Fingers Liquid Seaweed and Liquid Humic & Fulvic Acid.

By following these simple steps for digging and dividing your dahlia tubers, you'll ensure a healthy and vibrant display of blooms in your garden next season. With the right tools and techniques, caring for your dahlias can be a breeze. And with Green Fingers Dahlia Fertiliser, you can give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive.