When you put them outside did you put them in the sun? If so, try putting them in the shade for a while first to get them used to the brighter light. Even in the shade the light has much more intensity than indoors.

Last weekend I put some dahlias outside for a few hours as well, and the largest one looked a little wilty - but then perked up once in the house. I was wondering if it was because I started the plants too soon and it is a bit on the big side of ideal. I read somewhere that the ideal height of a transplant was 12 inches high, and the one wilty plant I have is over that height. The shorter, less advanced plants did not seem to have the same problem.

Good luck with your hardening off, at least you can plant yours out soon - this weekend we are having a snow storm!

Janet