Although human eyes are for enjoying the scenery, Dahlia tuber eyes have a huge role in completing the plant’s lifecycle.
However, you need to identify the eyes not to waste your efforts while growing Dahlia. So scroll down to take a brief tour of it.
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What Are Dahlia Tuber Eyes?
Dahlia is a tuberous perennial flowering plant famous for its vibrant blooms, emerging from tubers that are similar to potatoes.
Generally, the tubers are the underground starchy body of Dahlia that stores water and nutrition for the entire plant till the establishment of strong root systems.
Furthermore, these tubers contain small bumps on the root crown, known as eyes.
The tuber eyes contain all the genetic information required for the next generation. So it is the most vital part of Dahlia propagation.
How To Identify A Dahlia Eye?
Identifying Dahlia’s eye can be tricky if you do it during the first year of growth in the fall or winter.
The Dahlia grows actively during the spring, allowing the eyes to emerge with growth. At such times you can easily identify the bumps.
Secondly, look for the bump’s color. It should be whitish to pinkish and reddish. Meanwhile, it can also be of the same color as the tuber. So it might be confusing at the beginning.
But once the tuber eyes of Dahlia sprout, you can easily identify them.
Lastly, you can use a magnifying glass if you are eager to find the tuber eye. Ensure to remove excess soil for better visibility.
Do All Tubers Have Eyes?
No. Not all Dahlia tubers have eyes. The reason could be the various factor on which the growth depends.
However, the primary role player is the type of Dahlia and the structure of the tuber that they possess, as there are clumps of tubers attached to the central one.
So, if you want a healthy sprout for successful Dahlia cultivation, grow the tubers with eyes.
It is because Dahlia tuber eyes are the primary plant propagating methods. The tuber eyes are the DNA of Dahlia that carries the parental character.
And any type of eyes, either dried or shriveled, will not be a problem. Remember not to use mushy or desiccated tuber, as you will not get a new plant.
However, if the tubers have no eyes, better to compost them as that will be a waste of time.
From Editorial Team
Proper Use Of Tuber!
Check for eyes in the tuber before planting, as it will help you determine the tubers’ viability. Also, know that some variety shows eye slower than others.
Meanwhile, to ensure the on-time arrival of tuber eyes, provide them with warm space. And protect tubers from cold temperatures by digging and bringing them indoors.
