When planting, make a hole 4 to 6 in. (10-15cm) deep. Many recommend a handful of bone meal to promote rooting, but some animals are very attracted by the smell (dog, skunk) and can dig up your tubers. If you used a mineral fertilizer, mix the ground so as not to cause burns during root development.

Place the tuber horizontally in the hole with the buds pointing up. Cover with about 2 to 3 cm of soil, not filling the hole. Wait until the first leaf to water or sprinkle lightly if the soil is very dry. They will likely rot if you keep the soil too moist or wet. The first leaves should appear 2 to 4 weeks after planting. You can fill the hole after the stem has protruded from the soil.

If you have large seeds, cut them to about 1''(2.5cm) long above a node (pink-brown line on the stem). This will not damage your dahlia, on the contrary - it helps to have a stronger rod.

Do not water the tubers after planting until the first leaves appear unless the soil has dried or it is very well drained. At this stage too much moisture may promote root rot.