When to Dig up Dahlia Bulbs

Dahlias come in all sizes, from small 12-inch plants to towering beauties that can reach 8 feet. The blooms range in size from modest 2-inch flowers to gigantic 12-inch blooms. These striking plants have an amazing color range that includes shades of red, pink, purple and orange. With the exception of black and blue, dahlias cover the gamut of colors. Native to Mexico, the dahlia was cultivated by the Aztecs and continues to serve as Mexico's national flower.

Things You'll Need

• Dahlias
• Garden tools
• Knife
• Box or crate
• Sawdust or pet bedding
• Old newspapers

Instructions

1. Allow dahlias to grow in the garden until they are killed by a hard frost. If your area does not get a frost, cut the foliage back to several inches in late October or early November. Leave the tubers in the ground for at least a week (two is even better) before digging them. If you dig dahlias before they have had time to rest and produce new sprouts on the tuber, they will not keep during the winter.

2. Use a garden fork to dig around the base of the dahlia plant at a distance of 12 inches. Be sure not to dig too closely to the plant as you may damage the tubers in the process. Lift the tubers from the soil and shake to remove excess soil. Rinse away the remaining soil with a garden hose and allow the tubers to dry outside for at least 24 hours. Be sure they are protected from rain or damaging weather conditions.

3. Divide dahlia tubers by cutting them with a sharp knife. Each section needs an eye in order to produce a new plant. The eyes are located near the end where the tuber joins the main stalk. Occasionally a tuber does not contain an eye. Discard this tuber. If eyes are difficult to see or you are unsure of which tubers to save, you can make a clean cut through the center of the clump. Depending on the size of the clump of tubers, you may wish to cut it into quarters. Allow cut tubers to dry for 24 hours before storing.

4. Cover the bottom of a wooden crate or cardboard box with old newspaper and add 2 to 3 inches of sawdust or pet bedding (shavings). Layer dahlia tubers on top of the shavings and cover with another inch or 2 of shavings. Repeat layers until you have added all the tubers, ending with a layer of shavings. Store in a cool, dry area with temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees F. Check the tubers periodically to ensure maximum health. Discard any damaged or shriveled tubers.

Tips & Warnings

• Label tubers before storing. Even though you think you will remember, chances are you won't. It can be difficult to determine dahlia color in the spring, but you can usually identify light and dark varieties by the color of the sprouts.