We plant dahlias in a double row, 12” apart in both directions. We used to use four t-posts and baling twine to make a box around our dahlias. We’d put two t-posts every 20 or 25 feet down our 200 foot rows and then we’d use baling twine starting at 12 inches off the ground to make a box around four t-posts, repeating all the way down the row.
During 2020 we needed lots of t-posts fast since we were rapidly expanding our dahlia plantings, but they were hard to get in the PNW due to supply chain difficulties. We brainstormed this solution that uses half the t-posts, and now it’s our preferred way to stake our plants.
Here’s how we “corral” our dahlia rows with baling twine and fewer t-posts to give them the support they need for the growing season.
Soon after planting, we pound a single t-post every 20 to 25-ft down the row. When dahlias are about 12” high we make a “belt” of twine and corral the dahlias with it. As they grow, we add layers of twine as needed. This works just as well even though it uses half the amount of t-posts! We like to use a biodegradable baling twine that deteriorates in the sun, but any type of baling twine would do.
