Waking Tubers via the Baggie Method

Dahlia eyes can be very difficult to see, especially right after shipping when the tubers are still dormant.

A simple and reliable way to wake them up and make the eyes visible is what we call the “baggie method.”

Here is how it works:

1. Take some fresh potting soil and lightly moisten it. You want it damp, not wet. If you squeeze it, it should hold together but not drip water.
2. Place some of the damp soil into a plastic zipper bag.
3. Set the tuber in the bag and add enough soil to completely cover it.
4. Seal the bag closed.
5. Keep the bag at room temperature, ideally around 65 to 70 degrees.
6. Place the bag in a location with no direct light. Light can create excess heat, which we want to avoid.
7. Check every couple of days. Within about 5 to 10 days, you should start to see the eyes swelling or small sprouts forming at the crown.

A couple of important tips:

• Do not overwater. Too much moisture can cause rot.
• No light is needed during this stage.
• The goal is not to grow the plant yet, just to wake the tuber up enough to clearly identify the eyes.

Once the eyes are visible, you can pot them up or plant them outside if conditions are right. We recommend waiting until soil temperatures are at least 60 degrees before planting outdoors.

Dahlias can be slow to wake, especially early in the season, so a little patience really helps.