How do I Dry Out Begonia Bulbs for Storing?

Dig begonia bulbs after the first fall frost.

Begonias grow from tender bulbs that won't survive freezing winter temperatures. To save the bulbs for next year, dig them up after the plants are killed by frost, and then dry them for storage.

Curing

When begonias are killed by the first fall frost, dig the bulbs. Cut off the plants at the soil line before digging. Lay out the bulbs with stalks and roots attached in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. After two to three weeks, remove any remaining soil, stalks and roots, and cut out any rotten spots. Dust the bulbs with fungicide before storing.

Storing

Store a few bulbs in a glass jar filled with dry peat moss, sand or vermiculite. Store larger quantities of bulbs in a cardboard or wooden box between layers of dry peat moss, sand or vermiculite. Store the bulbs at a temperature of 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Checking

Check periodically for signs of rotting. Cut out any rotten spots, and then replace the bulbs in the storage media.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: Storing Tender Bulbs and Bulblike Structures
• Purdue University Cooperative Extension: Winter Storage of Geranium, Canna, Gladiolus, Caladium, and Begonia
• University of Wisconsin Extension: How to Grow Tuberous-Rooted Begonias and Gloxinias