Choosing healthy and quality tubers is crucial to the success of your dahlias in the garden. Healthy tubers lead to beautiful flowers and help prevent common dahlia problems, such as dahlia tubers mold. In this blog we explore how to get the best dahlia tubers can select and what you should pay attention to when buying. For more information about dahlias and the different types, check out our blogs what are dahlias, dahlia species and discover our wide range our assortment.
Table of contents
Characteristics of quality dahlia tubers
Firmness and structure
Quality Dahlia Quality tubers are firm and sturdy. They should feel firm and free of soft spots. Soft or spongy tubers can be a sign of rot or other underlying problems such as dahlia tuber fungus. It is important to choose tubers that have retained their integrity and are not dented or damaged.
No visible damage
Inspect quality tubers for signs of mechanical damage, such as cuts or breaks, that may occur during storage or transport. Damaged tubers are more susceptible to pests and diseases. Healthy tubers should also be free of abnormal growths or signs of insect damage.
No mold or rot
One of the most common dahlia problems is mold. Carefully check quality tubers for any mold spots or signs of rot. White or gray mold spots can indicate problems that can seriously affect the health of the plant. A healthy tuber is dry and shows no signs of mold growth.
Number of eyes
Look at the number of 'eyes' or growing points on a tuber. A quality dahlia tuber will have several distinct eyes from which new stems and flowers will grow. Quality tubers without visible eyes can be challenging to grow and may not be as successful in the garden.
How do you store dahlia tubers?
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of dahlia quality tubers. After the end of the flowering season and before the first frost, quality tubers should be carefully dug up and cleaned of all soil. Allow to dry in a cool, dry place before storing in a breathable material such as vermiculite or dry peat, in a room with a constant temperature of around 5-10°C. Avoid storing tubers in plastic as this can trap moisture and promote mould.
Successfully choosing and maintaining quality dahlia tubers can make the difference between a garden full of vibrant colour and a season full of challenges. By following these tips, you can enjoy healthy, flowering dahlias year after year. Explore our range to start or expand your collection of these beautiful flowers, and delve deeper into the world of dahlias by reading our informative blogs on what are dahlias en dahlia species to visit.
