Frequently asked questions - Dahlia Tubers
When will Dahlia tubers be available?
The Ruby Wildflower dahlia tuber presale opens on Thursday 28 May 2026 at 8pm NZT.
Tubers are limited and some varieties may sell out quickly. Join the mailing list to get EARLY ACCESS, as well as, stay up to date with release information and future restocks
What is a Dahlia tuber?
A dahlia tuber is an underground storage root that grows into a flowering dahlia plant. They’re a little bit like a cross between a potato and a kūmara — funny looking, but full of energy for next season’s growth.
Each tuber contains an “eye” or growing point, which is where the new shoot will emerge from in spring.
How should I store my tubers once they arrive?
If you’re not planting your tubers straight away, keep them somewhere cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight.
A cardboard box with dry sawdust, wood shavings, or paper works well. Avoid sealed plastic containers or anywhere too damp, as excess moisture can cause rot.
When should I plant my Dahlia tubers?
Dahlias are best planted in spring once the soil has started warming up and the risk of frost has mostly passed.
Here in New Zealand, I usually aim to plant around Labour Weekend, although warmer areas may be able to plant a little earlier.
How do I plant my Dahlia tubers
Plant tubers around 10–15cm deep in well-draining soil with the eye facing upwards.
Dahlias love full sun, regular watering, and feeding during the growing season. Taller varieties will usually benefit from staking for support.
Will I receive a single tuber or a clump?
Most orders are supplied as a single healthy tuber with at least one visible eye or growing point. Occasionally some varieties may be sent as small clumps depending on how they naturally divide.
Frequently asked questions - Seeds & Shipping
Where do your seeds come from?
All Ruby Wildflower seed mixes are grown, harvested, and packed here in New Zealand from flowers grown in my own garden.
Because many flowers are open-pollinated, there can be natural variation in colour, shape, and form — which is honestly part of the magic.
How do I sow Dahlia seeds?
Dahlia seeds are best started in spring once temperatures begin warming up.
For best germination, sow seeds indoors or in a protected spot using a heat mat around 20°C. Lightly cover with seed-raising mix and keep evenly moist. Seeds usually germinate within 7–14 days.
Seedlings can be planted out once frost risk has passed. Each seed has the potential to grow into a completely unique new dahlia and will form tubers by the end of the season.
How do I sow Zinnia seeds?
Zinnias love warmth and are best sown from late spring onwards once the soil has warmed.
Seeds can be direct sown into the garden or started in trays. Cover lightly with soil and keep moist during germination. Most seeds will sprout within 5–10 days in warm conditions.
Plant in full sun and keep picking flowers regularly to encourage even more blooms through summer and autumn.
What should I do when my order arrives?
Please check your order as soon as it arrives. If there are any issues with your order, contact me within 48 hours with photos and details so I can help.
Do you offer refunds or returns?
Refunds are only offered for faulty or damaged products. Due to the nature of tubers and seeds, change-of-mind returns are not accepted.
If there’s a problem with your order, please get in touch as soon as possible.
Do you ship internationally?
At this stage, Ruby Wildflower ships within New Zealand only.