I woke mine up in the middle of January. I planted 283 tubers in flats in order to take cuttings. I took my first cutting on 2/19 and so far have taken 73. I only cut buds from 45 tubers, but this was my first year trying to over-winter tubers so I don't feel too bad.

I also just received my new Swan Island tubers, and planted them yesterday in the flats. Almost all have visible eyes, and some even have sprouts.

Of the 21 varieties I stored, 5 didn't eye up...probably due to my lack of skill at dividing tubers. I believe I didn't leave enough material for eyes to form. Most that have produced had sprouts by the end of February (e.g. 6 weeks.) The longest to sprout was Outta Da Blue, which has taken 8 weeks and the first sprout is still only 1/2" long.

So, if you're planning for the first week in May, I'd say you could go ahead and get them started inside now if you have the space.

Cheers,
Russ

I'm also in Zone 5 and started some of mine about a week ago. I have sprouts!

How did you get your Dahlias so early from Swan Island? My Dahlias are not due to be shipped until the second week in April. Can not wait. Last years dahlias were outstanding.

You can specify the date you want them shipped, with the first available date being March 5th.

So I said I wanted them March 5th...;-]

I would have loved them even sooner!!

Cheers,
Russ

Thanks for responding. I let the wife chose what Dahlias she wants me to grow, so she dose the ordering. I have plenty from last year to start early.