Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 3: Remove the bulbs from the ground
• Part 2 of 3: Properly storing the bulbs
• Part 3 of 3: Avoid common mistakes
• Tips

A dahlia is a flowering plant that grows from a tuberous bulb. Dahlias are grown by both professional and amateur gardeners. It is possible to store dahlia bulbs in the winter so they can be replanted in the spring to produce flowers again. Carefully remove the bulbs from the ground and choose a well-ventilated container in which to store them. Make sure to check the bulbs during the winter to make sure they stay fresh.

To step

Part 1 of 3: Remove the bulbs from the ground

1. Cut the stems. Before you can get dahlia bulbs out of the ground, you need to cut the stems. You should do this as soon as the first frost of the season is a fact.
   • Cut the stems to about 6 inches from the ground.
   • You can now let the roots sit for another two or three weeks before removing the bulbs.
   • If desired, you can wait until the leaves are dead instead of cutting the stems.
2. Loosen the soil around the bulbs. To begin removing the bulbs, use a fork to gently loosen the soil around the bulbs. Be careful not to dig too close to the stem or too deep into the ground. You don't want to accidentally hit the bulbs, damaging them.
   • Use wiggling motions to clear the soil.
   • Loosen a small circle of soil around each sphere.
3. Remove the bulbs from the soil. Once you see the bulbs, you can get them out of the ground. You can use a stick with a blunt end to remove the soil from around the bulbs. Then stick your fork under the bulb. Then gently push down on the handle of the fork to lift the bulb out of the ground.
   • Work very slowly as you lift the sphere.
4. Shake and rinse excess soil from the bulb. A lot of soil will stick to the bulbs. It must be removed before storage. Gently shake off as much soil as possible, then rinse away the remaining soil with water.
   • Wear gardening gloves to protect your hands.
   • Be very careful when shaking and rinsing the bulbs. You don't want to damage them. If the bulbs get damaged, you cannot use them again the following year.

Part 2 of 3: Properly storing the bulbs

1. Let the bulbs dry for three weeks. You should not store the bulbs before they are completely dry. This process takes approximately three weeks. After removing the bulbs from the soil, place them upside down in a pot.
   • During the drying process, place the pot away from direct sunlight.
   • The pot should be in a dry, airy place. A storage shed or garage are good options.
2. Prepare the dahlias for storage. After three weeks have passed, you can prepare the dahlias for winter storage. They should be packed in storage bins with sphagnum moss, sawdust or potting compost.
   • Use a tray to keep your plants.
   • Then cover the container with a piece of burlap or similar material.
3. Find a place indoors to keep your bulbs. If there are not very harsh winters in your area, you can leave the tray outside, near your garden. However, if the temperature drops below −9 ° C, you should store the bulbs in a sheltered place. This area should be dry, cool, and well-ventilated to keep the bulbs looking good.)
   • A dry basement or closet in a cool area of ​​your home, such as a basement or attic, are good options for storing dahlia bulbs.
   • For best results, the storage area should have a temperature of 4 ° to 7 ° C.
4. Check the bulbs in winter. You can't ignore the bulbs until spring. Check them regularly throughout the winter for any sign of deterioration. If the bulbs shrivel, spray some water on them. If any parts start to rot, cut those parts and remove them from the container.

Part 3 of 3: Avoid common mistakes

1. Make sure to remove the bulbs at the right time. Always remove the bulbs at the correct time of the year. That way, you have the best chance that the bulbs will bloom again in the spring. The first light frost of the season is usually the best time to remove the bulbs, but it is very important to remove them before severe frost. Make sure to get them out of the ground before it freezes consistently in your area.
2. Avoid keeping the bulbs in a warm place. You need to make sure that the bulbs are kept at a low temperature. Storing the bulbs in your home, such as in the kitchen, is not recommended. Warm kitchen cupboards will destroy the bulbs. Store them in areas of your home where the temperature is lower, such as the attic or basement.
3. Make sure the container is well ventilated. There should be some holes in the storage container you choose. If the bulbs don't get air, they will spoil. Always choose a well-ventilated container for storing dahlia bulbs.

Tips

• If you notice bulbs growing together, you can use garden shears to cut them loose and separate them.