Dahlias flower from July to the first hard frost, typically late October in most of the UK. Over 42,000 named cultivars exist across 14 classified groups, including decorative, cactus, pompon, and dinnerplate types. Tubers cost two to six pounds each and multiply every season. Plant outdoors after the last frost, usually late May in England and early June in Scotland. Lift tubers in November when temperatures fall below minus 5 Celsius.
Key takeaways
- Plant tubers outdoors after the last frost, typically late May in England and early June in Scotland
- Start tubers indoors in March in 2-litre pots to gain 4-6 weeks of extra growing time
- Pinch out the growing tip above the fourth leaf pair to produce 3-4 times more flowers
- Feed fortnightly with high-potash fertiliser from July onward to sustain flowering until frost
- Earwigs are the number one dahlia pest, trap them with upturned straw-filled pots on canes
- Lift tubers after the first hard frost and store in dry compost at 5-10 Celsius over winter
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Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
