Hi friends! Today I’m answering one of the most popular questions I get about dahlias: where do I get my tubers?
Over the years, I’ve tried just about every route. I have picked up tubers from big box garden centers, ordered from large online retailers and bought from small backyard growers who lovingly divide and ship their own stock. Each option can work, but after lots of trial and error (and a few disappointing seasons), I’ve learned that where you buy your tubers truly matters.
The biggest game changer for me has been buying from growers who are in my same growing zone or a similar climate.
When you purchase locally or regionally grown tubers, you are getting plants that are already acclimated to your weather, similar soil conditions and your season length. They have proven they can thrive in your type of heat (big factor in Georgia!), humidity, or cooler nights. That means stronger plants, better sprouting, and way more blooms. And honestly, fewer gardening heartbreaks.
Plus, buying from small growers often means you are getting fresher tubers that were divided recently, not something that’s been sitting in storage for months. There’s also something really special about supporting fellow flower lovers and small farms. Many of them are happy to share growing tips, answer questions, and recommend varieties that do well in your specific area. That kind of knowledge is priceless.
Don’t get me wrong, larger retailers can be convenient, especially if you are just starting out or looking for common varieties. But if you’re investing in special or hard to find dahlias, or you really want a thriving cutting garden, I highly recommend seeking out local or zone specific growers first.
After a lot of experimenting, these are a few of my favorite sources that have been tried and true for me. I come back to them year after year because their tubers are healthy, reliable, and grow beautifully in my garden.
The Dahlia Buffet– local to Georgia (zone 8a). You have to order via her spreadsheet but trust me, the tubers are perfection and best priced!
Hearts & Spade – specializes in heat tolerant dahlias so perfect for warmer growing zones. Also great deal on beautiful bundles!
Lane House Florals– my favorite tubers of 2025 were from Lane House Florals. I also found her pricing to be some of the best around (per my research).
ELM Floral Design– I found April Heather and she did great for me!
Valley Ridge Dahlias– I have been ordering from them for a few years now and everything has done great for me. Especially one of my favorites, Coralie.
Pure Indulgence– some of the most beautiful varities that are hard to find can be purchased here. They have all done well for me too despite being grown in a Washington state.
If you are just getting started, my best advice is to start small, try a few varieties from a trusted grower, and see what performs well in your own space. Every garden teaches you something new, and half the fun is figuring out what thrives for you.
Happy planting, friends!
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