As summer approaches, it is time to think about what you are going to grow and getting quality bulbs, plants and flowers to support your growing plan during these sunny, warmer months. For many people, summer simply would not be summer without dahlias so now is the time to locate dahlias bulbs for sale so you are ready to get planting when the time comes around – because it will come around sooner than you think.

When you are buying dahlia bulbs, check them over thoroughly before planting. Inspect them visually for any blemishes and check that they feel firm to the touch – they should not be soft or going mushy as this indicates that they are mouldy and will not grow. Follow all instructions on the dahlia bulbs carefully to ensure you have the best chance of success with your growing.

Your guide to growing dahlias from bulb: how to get the highest quality bulbs and get the most out of your summer planting

Dahlias are not too difficult to grow but they will need some care and attention if you want to get the most out of them. Dahlia bulbs will need to be planted out before the summer, around May or June time when the ground begins to warm up. They are late summer flowerers, so they will begin to flower from July through to October.

In order to grow dahlias successfully, you will need to provide the right growing conditions for them and will need to care for them in the right way. The bulbs will need to be planted around 60cm apart to allow them to grow, and their full height will be around one metre once they are fully grown.

Dahlias will grow best in conditions where they have plenty of sun but also shelter at the same time. They will need a specific type of soil – fertile, rich and moist, but also free draining. If you already have dahlia bulbs planted, dig up the tubers in autumn so they will not get damaged by the frost during winter. In early April, you can begin to grow them again and you should plan to plant them out from May when the weather is warm enough.

Getting the widest variety of dahlia bulb options

Dahlia bulbs can be bought in garden centres but in general, there will be a wider variety online, giving you more choice of varieties and colours. The beauty of dahlias is in their rich, varied colours, so you can experiment all you like and make your garden a colourful place to buy. Buy all bulbs from a reputable seller who is known for the high quality of their bulbs.

There are various shapes of dahlia you can buy as well, from tight balls to large blooms that are more like lilies in appearance. This makes them great for all planting schemes and they will never look out of place in borders, whether you have a cottage garden aesthetic or you are trying something more unusual and adventurous.