There are many benefits to starting dahlias indoors. Early planting means early flowering, which is a huge advantage for unpredictable Southern Ontario climate. Dahlias are native to Mexican mountain plains, thriving in cooler parts of early summer and early fall. Blistering Toronto summers delay harvests; by planting developed plants instead of tubers, a grower can expect to collect their first bouquet by July 1st. In short, if you’re planning an early summer wedding and dahlias are a must on your list – starting dahlias indoors is inevitable.

Another great reason to start dahlias indoors is to try your hand at multiplying your stock by propagating dahlia cuttings. Professional growers begin this process in February-March and by the time last frost date rolls in around Victoria Day (May 24), they have stronger plants that will produce better, bigger flowers and fresh tubers in the same season. We suggest you practice propagation even if you have no intention of growing extra dahlias. You never know when you may need to multiply a rare or a favourite stock and you want to be confident when that day comes.

Finally, if you plan to grow only a few plants in containers, starting indoors not only gives you a head start on collecting the flowers, it will also eliminate the need to lift, rinse and divide the tubers at the end of the season. Bring the pot inside, let it dry out and rest over winter until you decide what to do in the new year.