Star Elite

To plant Star Elite dahlia tubers, start by selecting a location with well-draining soil and full sunlight. Dig a hole about 4-5 inches deep and place the tuber in the hole with the sprouts facing up. Cover the tuber with soil, leaving about 2 inches above the soil level.

Water the tuber thoroughly and continue to water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. As the plant grows, provide support for the stems with stakes or cages to prevent breakage. Fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced fertilizer until the plant reaches full maturity, and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Soaking Star Elite dahlia tubers before planting can help to speed up the process of sprouting and promote healthy growth. Soaking for 1-2 hours in room temperature water can help hydrate the tubers and initiate the germination process.

Sometimes we also recommend adding a rooting hormone solution to the soaking water to help stimulate root growth. However, it's important not to soak the tubers for too long, as this can lead to rotting. So, while soaking can be beneficial for Star Elite dahlia tubers, it's important to be careful and only soak for a short period of time.

Star Elite dahlias can grow well both in pots and in the ground, but there are some factors to consider when deciding which option is best for your needs.

When grown in pots, dahlias can be moved around to take advantage of the best light and temperature conditions, making them a good choice for gardeners with limited space. Potted dahlias are also easier to protect from pests and diseases. However, dahlias grown in pots may require more frequent watering and fertilizing, and they may have limited space for root growth, which can affect their overall size and health.

On the other hand, dahlias planted in the ground have more space to grow and develop a strong root system. They can also benefit from natural soil nutrients and moisture, which may reduce the need for extra fertilizing and watering. However, dahlias planted in the ground are more vulnerable to pests and diseases, and they may be affected by weather conditions such as heavy rain or frost.

Ultimately, the choice between pot or ground planting for your Star Elite dahlias will depend on your specific gardening goals, space, and resources.

To keep Star Elite dahlias blooming, you need to provide them with the right growing conditions and care. First, plant the dahlias in a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Water them regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot. Fertilize the dahlias every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the plants when they reach 12-18 inches tall to promote bushier growth and more flowering stems. Finally, protect the dahlias from pests and diseases by keeping the area around them clean and free of debris.