[idioticlee]

I am the proud recipient of 80 various dahlia tubers and I dont know what to do with them. Some are described as low growing, others are patio and others are rumoured to be taller than the first two. Please may I ask the following:

1. when is the correct time of the year to plant?
2. do I plant straight into the garden?
3. what type of aspect do they require?
4. any chance they do well on a 45 degree slope?
(bane of my life & I am trying to find someting to stop the erosion
and bring some colour)
5. do I absolutely have to dig them up or is there any chance they'll naturalise?
6. if I have to dig them up, what time of the year do I do that?
7. how would I prepare them for storage, and how would I actually store them?
8. Is there anything else I might have forgotton to ask regarding the welfare of dahlias?

Have a great gardening weekend. Stay well!

[cooler]

From the best of my knowledge, here is what I think.

1. when is the correct time of the year to plant?
Over the upcoming month and April.

2. do I plant straight into the garden?
Yes and no. Some of the smaller types are known as patio Dahlias and are planted usually in pots. Nearly every other go into the garden.

3. what type of aspect do they require?
South or west facing, as much sun as possible. Try to pick an area not too windy.

4. any chance they do well on a 45 degree slope?
(bane of my life & I am trying to find someting to stop the erosion
and bring some colour)
Depends on the wind hitting this slope.


5. do I absolutely have to dig them up or is there any chance they'll naturalise?
If you have soggy soil over winter then it is best to lift them to prevent rotting of the tuber. those planted in free draining soil or in raised beds can be left to their own devices.

6. if I have to dig them up, what time of the year do I do that?
End of October.


7. how would I prepare them for storage, and how would I actually store them?
Cut back the old stems to about 6 inches from the ground. Dig them up carefully. Hang them in a mesh bag from the ceiling of a shed, with the hollow stems pointing down to allow any trapped water out.
Once the remaining soil has dried around the tubers, remove it gently. Then put the roots in boxs or pots of bone dry peat moss or vermiculite, with the stems pointing up. Do not cover the stems. Store in a cool frost free garage or shed. Inspect them every so often for mould on the tubers (cut out) or mice damage (set traps)


8. Is there anything else I might have forgotton to ask regarding the welfare of dahlias?
Dont forget that some of the taller ones will need staking.

[idioticlee]

Thanks so much Cooler. I am so primed and ready. its a pity its only Wednesday. Work seriously interferes with gardening!! Thanks again