It’s fall once more, which implies it’s time to dig up the dahlias and the cannas. Since I moved from a really temperate area it is a chore that should be completed earlier than the primary exhausting freeze, or danger shedding these superb bloomers; and bear in mind, I’m low-cost. I don’t wish to pay for brand new dahlia bulbs.
Digging Up Tubers
The primary yr I moved to my present dwelling I discovered that it was too chilly to depart these tender crops to overwinter instantly within the soil. So, it was a little bit of a studying curve as to how one can retailer the tubers correctly. Certainly, the primary yr was a fail. We reasonably cavalierly dug the bulbs up and positioned them on a shelf in our basement. The bulbs shriveled, nearly to the purpose of breaking up after we touched them.
So, off to the helpful dandy web I went to learn up on the right process to retailer tubers. I discovered many issues, some which contradicted one another, which made it a bit troublesome to return to a conclusion.
Find out how to Retailer Tubers
I’ve tried storing my tubers a few alternative ways and the best way that appears to work the most effective is in peat moss. First dig up your tuber utilizing a fork to softly raise it from the soil. Watch out to not harm the tuber which may open it as much as illness.
I rinse my dahlia tubers off after which set them to dry off a bit within the basement the place it’s cool and dry. After a few days I verify them for any harm. If I discover some which were nibbled on or look diseased, I discard or lower the tuber aside to take away the unhealthy space.
Then I simply lay down a layer of peat moss in a plastic container (that has a lid), nestle the tubers down contained in the peat moss, cowl with extra peat moss after which shut the lid. They’re then saved in an unheated, darkish closet within the basement.
From what I’ve learn, you’re purported to verify the tubers to verify they don’t dry out an excessive amount of, however I’m by no means that organized. Frankly, as soon as they’re in storage, I neglect all about them till it’s time to plant them once more.
Up to now so good. The previous couple of years of storing the tubers on this method have been profitable. In fact I mentally maintain my fingers crossed the entire time as properly, however up to now so good. We’ll see what occurs this yr.
