I started mine the other day. They are not yet in pots, but rather laying flat on growing medium and lightly covered, in order to stimulate the shoots. These I put in a warm spot under lights. Then I will be able to clearly see which tubers are viable and which are purely there to store food. Remember, only the ones with eyes will sprout.

When they have sprouted, then I put them into pots and under lights until it warms up enough to put them outside during the days, and then carry them inside at night when it may freeze. Your dahlias will not tolerate any frost.

Last year, I planted the paper pots and all directly into the ground. After watering them in, I could easily tear off any paper that was above ground. By planting the entire paper pot, you don't disturb the roots at all. Of course, the paper will decompose in the soil, and the roots will easily push through.

Personally, I don't want them to get too large indoors, otherwise they get leggy. That is why I move them outdoors during the day. The plant will not grow too lanky that way, as it can take up a good amount of light readily, and does not have to stretch to get it. If they do get too large, I pinch the tops off ( check the other discussions regarding pinching back). This will force the plant to send out lateral shoots, and you will get more flowers. However, if you are in to show your dahlias you might want to think twice about that. Personally, I grow them because I love them, and they make my wife happy to have flowers for cutting and decorating the house.

Thanks JRoot!

I apprecitate any tidbits offered. So far I'm thinking I'm doing pretty ok. I'll be sure to let you all know how the babies are doing. And as always, I'll be sure to post some pics later on :)

Nikki~

If they get too leggy you can plant them deep -- like tomatoes. You just pull off the bottom couple of rows of leaves & put them in deep. You will get bonus tubers from where the leaves were!

Ooooooh.....seee? A new tidbit we just learned. Thanks! I still need all I can absorb ;)

Redd~