INFO

You can grow dahlias from either seeds or tubers. Tubers are like little underground storage units and grow into exact copies of the parent plant. Seeds, on the other hand, are a bit of a lucky dip – they can produce all sorts of colors and flower shapes.

Dahlia seeds are best started indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Keep them warm and moist until the seedlings are big enough to handle. We recommend hardening off before plating outside. "Hardening off" is just the process of getting your indoor plants used to the outdoors. Start by putting them outside for a few hours each day, and gradually increase the time over about a week or two. This helps them adjust to things like sunlight, wind, and temperature changes without getting shocked.

Plant dahlias in early to mid-spring, once the soil has warmed up and the frost risk has passed. In most of New Zealand, this usually happens around September to October. Dig a hole about 10–15 cm deep, with the growing eye facing up, and plant your tubers in well-draining soil. Space them 30–40 cm apart. Dahlias thrive in full sun and love being watered and fed during the growing season. Make sure your soil is free draining as tubers can be prone to rotting.

Please reach out if you have any questions. We are happy to help!