Water so that it doesn't dry out, but does not sit in wet soil all the time. Once they get going, I fertilize every couple of weeks.

What do you use for fertilizer these days Jroot? I'm trying a whole host of different things this year, many mentioned here at GW. My plan is to use various fertliziers on the same variety in close proximity and see how they behave.

Stef the usual advice is an inch of water a week, but it varies so with temperature, soil quality and drainage. Beware that a wilting plant in midday heat doesn't necessarily mean they need more water. If they bounce back by evening, all is well. A wilting plant that stays wilted is either dry or sick and needs further attention.

Here is a link that might be useful: Dahlias.net site

And here's another excellent site with great photos in the "Learning Center."

Here is a link that might be useful: Mid Island Dahlia Society Site

I usually fertilize with 20-20-20 . This is sprayed via a hose attachment. I fertilize my brugmansia every week, but the dahlias I do every 2 weeks, if I remember.

Good advice about not overwatering.