Hi! I’m new to growing dahlias and want to make sure I’m not setting them up for rot.
I planted my tubers yesterday in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil (with some perlite mixed in). Before planting:
– Some tubers I just rinsed
– Some I soaked in water for about 30 minutes
After planting, I watered them lightly with lukewarm water.
Now it’s been about 24 hours, and the soil is still very wet – I did not pour more water that i have seen on the recommendations videos
They are:
– Indoors
– Under a grow light ~12 hours a day
– In pots with drainage holes
I’ve read conflicting advice:
Some say not to water at all before sprouts appear, others say its a must when planting it.
So my questions:
– Is it normal that the soil is still this wet after a day?
– Am I at risk of rot already?
– Should I leave them alone to dry out, or actually take them up and replant in drier soil?
Would really appreciate honest feedback – I’d rather fix it now than lose them later 😅
by wonderwallwomen
3 Comments
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Seems fine
Soil should be slightly moist but not wet. Newly planted tubers do not have roots so there is no way for them to take up the water yet. Soaking will only rot them. I’d repot and be sure to cover them completely (4″ below soil line). Start watering when the sprouts poke up above the soil.