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Past Articles Library | Flower Bulbs | Store Summer Flower Bulbs

HOW TO STORE SUMMER BULBS THE EASY WAY

Many of us love our tender summer bulbs such as dahlia, gladiola, and lilies, but let's be honest, we don't like the bother of digging, packing, and storing them indoors through the winter.

Worry no more.....

Here's the easy way:

1. Carefully dig up your summer bulbs in the fall before the freezing weather comes.
   
   
2. After digging up the bulbs, spread them on the ground to dry in the shade or, if it's going to rain, spread them indoors in the garage.
   
   
3. Allow them to dry for about one week.
   
   
4. Leave any soil on bulbs - that way you don't have to bother about storing them in vermiculite.
   
   
5. When the bulbs are completely dry, place the bulbs in plastic garbage bags, and leave the bags open.
   
   

   
   
   

6. Make absolutely sure that any soil clinging to the bulbs is dry, and check carefully for any harboring insects like pill bugs (sow bugs).
   
   
7. Fold the tops of the bags over loosely, never tie them shut, and inspect the bulbs periodically throughout the winter. Throw any away that begin to rot.
   
   
8. Store them in a dry, cool area, 35 to 50 degrees F (1.67 to 10 degrees C). Make sure they don't freeze.
   
   
9. By storing bulbs in an open plastic bag, it keeps them from drying out and yet allows them to breathe.