Grow Dahlias in full sun or partial shade and rich, evenly moist soil. Plant after danger of frost has passed in spring, setting the eyes (buds), which are located near the base of the previous year's stalk, facing up.

Gardeners in cold-winter climates can get a jump on a short season by starting Dahlia tubers indoors in pots or flats 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in their area. Pot tubers several inches deep in a light, soilless potting mix. Water sparingly until new growth emerges, and then more freely. Place the plants in a sunny window or under a growlight (timed for 15 hours of light). Plant them outside in the garden once all danger of frost has passed.

Varieties that grow much taller than 24 inches should be staked. Take care when pushing the stake into the soil to avoid injuring the tuber. For continued bloom, it is important to deadhead weekly.

Fully hardy to Zone 8 (10°F); well-mulched plants often overwinter in Zone 7 (0°F). In colder zones, harvest the tubers when frost blackens the leaves in fall. Dig up the entire root system and cut the stems off a few inches above above the top of the tubers. Place the tubers in a wooden crate or plastic tub and cover them completely with lightly moistened peat moss or sand. If you have more than one variety, label each tuber. Store at a cool temperature (40°-50°F). Set tubers back outdoors after the danger of frost has passed in spring.